Oxford Children’s to publish new picture book to celebrate King’s coronation

Oxford Children’s Books is publishing a new picture book to celebrate King Charles III’s coronation in 2023. 

The King’s Runaway Crown was developed and written in-house by Rosalind Spark and illustrated by Ian Smith. It follows the escapades of Colin, the King’s dog, who runs off with the crown just hours before the coronation, and little Violet, who heroically saves the day.  

It will publish in April 2023 accompanied by an “extensive” marketing and publicity campaign, including “engaging and fun” activities for use in the classroom and at home. 

Jen Long, commissioning editor, said: “The King’s Runaway Crown is the perfect feel-good story to celebrate King Charles’ coronation and is brilliantly accompanied by Ian’s vibrant illustrations. We wanted to mark this historic occasion by creating a beautiful picture book that captures the excitement and joy we all feel, along with a dash of adventure provided by Colin the naughty Jack Russell – inspired by the royal family’s own love of dogs!”