The hotly anticipated American edition of Robert Hardman's biography of Queen Elizabeth (formerly Our Queen in the U.K.)—An intimate portrait of England's soon-to-be longest reigning queen, in celebration of her diamond jubilee—and the first-ever book interview with her grandson, Prince William. History has known no monarch like her. She has traveled farther than all her predecessors put together and lived longer than any of them. She has known more historic figures than anyone alive—from Churchill to Mandela, de Gaulle to Obama. Now, the distinguished royal writer Robert Hardman has been granted special access to the world of Queen Elizabeth II to produce this enthralling new portrait of one of the most popular pubic figures on earth. Not only has Elizabeth II reigned through Britain’s transformation from an imperial power to a multi-cultural nation, but she has also steered the monarchy through more reforms in the last twenty-five years than in the previous century. Queen Elizabeth II sits at the head of an ancient institution that remains simultaneously popular, regal, inclusive, and relevant in a twenty-first-century world. It is down to neither luck nor longevity: it is down to the shrewd judgment of a thoroughly modern monarchy—with no small assistance from the longest-serving consort in history. Here is the inside story.

In 1977, Robert Lacey's bestselling MAJESTY was the first serious biography of Elizabeth II, defining the affection for the Queen that underlay the popular success of the Silver Jubilee. Now, on the fiftieth anniversary of her accession, ROYAL brings her remarkable story up to date. It provides a fresh portrait of her relationship with Prince Philip, and its effect on their children; it describes how the Queen has worked to live up to and maintain her strongly held beliefs, shaped over the years by the wishes and dreams - and sometimes the anger and unhappiness - of the people; and it explains how and why the monarchy continues to enjoy such enduring support. In addition, the Jubilee Paperback edition has been updated to reflect all the fast-changing events of the Jubilee year, specifically: * The controversy over the work activities of Prince Edward and Sophie * Prince Harry's escapades with drink and drugs * The death of Princess Margaret * The death of royal critic Lord Altrincham

Royal is a celebration and analysis of Britain's monarchy - an explanation of why most people feel good about The Queen and why it is okay to feel that way - tracing the evolution of monarchy's alliance with popular culture which is both its strength and weakness today.

Long did she reign and peacefully may she rest: this beautiful and thoughtful tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II celebrates the life of a remarkable woman whose 70 years on the throne made her the longest-reigning monarch in British History. Royal biographer Brian Hoey describes the childhood, accession and coronation of young Elizabeth, and chronicles her extraordinary and dignified transfiguration into beloved wife, mother and grandmother during her seven decades of unflagging service and dedication as Queen of the United Kingdom and Head of the Commonwealth. He also explains the constitutional roles and public duties of this accomplished stateswoman, conducted with such outstanding grace and professionalism throughout her life. As the royal family, her country, and countless people around the world prepare to say goodbye, he describes all the honour and ceremony one would expect to be lavished on this cherished sovereign and considers the everlasting effect that her work, life, and legacy will continue to have for many years to come.

Loved and admired throughout her long lifetime, her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II touched the lives of millions - not least through the speeches that she broadcast to the world each Christmas during her seventy years on the throne. This treasury of quotations highlights the values that were closest to her heart - courage, empathy, forgiveness, hope, humility, love and respect. These are the values that she encouraged in others and that she hoped would endure in the hearts of all people of goodwill - whatever their religion or race. Including official portraits of the Queen from each decade of her reign, this anthology pays tribute to a world leader whose grace and wisdom will never die. Contents: 1 A special kind of courage 2 People matter 3 Forgive and respect 4 With love in our hearts 5 The wisdom of children 6 Stronger together 7 Hope for tomorrow Epilogue