Abstract: Summary: "A revelatory account of how the loving marriage of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth saved the monarchy during World War II, and how they raised their daughter to become Queen Elizabeth II, based on exclusive access to the Royal Archives--from the bestselling author of Elizabeth the Queen and Prince Charles Granted special access by Queen Elizabeth II to her parents' letters and diaries and to the papers of their close friends and family, Sally Bedell Smith brings the love story of this iconic royal couple to vibrant life. This deeply researched and revealing book shows how a loving and devoted marriage helped the King and Queen meet the challenges of World War II, lead a nation, solidify the public's faith in the monarchy, and raise their daughters, Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret. When King Edward VIII abdicated the throne in 1936, shattering the Crown's reputation, his younger brother, known as Bertie, assumed his father's name and became King George VI. Shy, sensitive, and afflicted with a stutter, George VI had never imagined that he would become King. His wife, Elizabeth, a pretty, confident, and outgoing woman who became known later in life as "the Queen Mum, " strengthened and advised her husband. With his wife's support, guidance, and love, George VI was able to overcome his insecurities and become an exceptional leader, navigating the country through World War II, establishing a relationship with Winston Churchill, visiting Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt in Washington and in Hyde Park, and inspiring the British people with his courage and compassion during the Blitz. Simultaneously, George VI and Elizabeth trained their daughter Princess Elizabeth from an early age to be a highly successful monarch, and she would reign for an unprecedented seventy years. Sally Bedell Smith gives us an inside view of the lives, struggles, hopes, and triumphs of King George VI and Elizabeth during a dramatic time in history"-- Provided by publisher.
Content Notes: Prologue -- Part one: Loss and love. Twelve days -- An honorable boy -- Stuck in sick bay -- The rent you pay for life -- Coolness and courage -- Do's and don'ts -- Radiant vitality -- Improved in every way -- More than an ordinary friend -- Part two: Halcyon days. Don't forget your honey lamb -- A gilded carriage -- A splendid partner -- Family affairs -- Out of the welter -- My heart goes pit-a-pat -- Part three: The road to the crown. Tremendous joy -- Eager to do well -- Family crises -- Interlude -- A certain person -- The sunset of death -- Tears of destiny -- Part four: A royal beginning. Upright bearing and grave dignity -- His brother's shadow -- Simplicity and dignity -- Transatlantic triumph -- We shall prevail -- Part five: The war years. Sharing the suffering -- American friends -- The tide turns -- Overlord -- Part six: Indelible legacy. Changing of the guard -- Romance in the air -- Sunlight and clouds -- Farewell, with love.
Notes: "The text of this Large Print edition is unabridged."
Includes bibliographical references (pages 785-943).
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