The uncommon reader - Alan Bennett

The uncommon reader
Alan Bennett

This whimsical and heartwarmingly original story set in England, is about the queen’s passion for reading.
When the queen stumbles across a traveling library visiting the palace, she feels compelled to borrow a book more out of a sense of duty than any particular interest. Had she anticipated how this simple task would change her life she may have reconsidered her choice. She falls in love with reading, taking every opportunity to immerse herself into characters, far off places and lives far different to her own. To her surprise not only do her staff not share her passion but disapprove of it. For HRH to have a hobby is to be exclusive, she is told, because it made her appear to be preferential towards certain groups of people. Undeterred the queen becomes ever more eager to race through her official duties and get back to her books leaving her subjects, staff and dogs at a loss.
In his quirky and very British style, Bennett questions our passion for reading. ‘Just like a writer finds it impossible to stop writing, a lover of books finds it impossible to not be passionate about reading.’ The ending of the book with its sharp and witty twist carries a surprising punch.
A truly delightful tale that is sure to anchor itself into many book lovers hearts.