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King George VI

This is the compelling and moving life story of George VI, a shy and insecure man who unexpectedly became King. When, three years after his coronation, Britain declared war on Germany, George led his family in contributing to the war effort and giving his subjects a feeling that he shared in their plight. He visited troops, munitions factories, a supply docks and bomb-damaged areas, and as the Nazis bombed London, the royal family remained at Buckingham Palace. He became a strong leader, taking the country through the harsh reality of war and its aftermath, fostering the stability that was needed only at great personal cost.

Information from newly available sources reveals the true character of the king and his controversial relationships with his brother, the abdicated Edward VIII, and the present Queen Mother. We see George VI's role within the royal family as a whole, and the part he played in cementing Anglo-American relations.

Reviews

"Authoritative, readable, entertaining…half the length of the official Life and twice as readable….Professor Judd tells the story with a frankness and objectivity and his book ends so movingly that one needs a few moments to recover."
- Brian Masters, Evening Standard

"Professor Judd’s book is clear-eyed and refreshingly unsycophantic."
- Sunday Express

"King George VI is dealt with sensibly and sympathetically…by Denis Judd in a very English way."
- Asa Briggs, The Guardian

"An admirable and enjoyable book which has much to say."
- The Good Book Guide