A Year with the Queen, by Robert Hardman

I spent all day immersed in this book, and didn't put it down until I had read every page. I've always been curious about the Queen of England - and always been curious about what, exactly, she does. This book attempts to answer that question.

"A Year with the Queen" is meant to accompany the BBC television documentary of the same name, which I have not seen, so my opinions are based solely on the information in the book. I get the feeling that there is much more information in the documentary.

But that aside, "A Year with the Queen" is a great standalone book, that gives insight into England's monarchy. I'd describe this book as lush - something to be enjoyed slowly. The glossy photographs, book design, fonts, and additional information sections made this book a complete package - pleasant to look at, as well as enjoyable to read.

There are fun facts scattered throughout - for example, did you know that if someone in the line of succession marries a Roman Catholic, they're out? I did not. Or did you know that each invitation sent out from the palace is handwritten? Or did you know that the Queen awards 2,500 honors to deserving people each year? The book is full of facts like that, facts that go toward answering just what it is that the Queen does.

I would have liked to see a little more input from the Queen herself referenced in the book. But I think the author does an overall great job in keeping a balance between giving information and keeping a veneer of privacy on the monarchy - as he explains in the introduction, part of reverence towards the monarchy is from the mystery surrounding them. I'm personally going to use this book as a springing off point for continued reading. Even while I read "A Year with the Queen," I kept my computer handy so I could look up some of the people and places that were mentioned.

4/5. ( )

I feel vaguely embarrassed to admit it, but I am totally fascinated by royalty. ( )