You are viewing your 1 free article this month. Login to read more articles.
Andersen Press has signed a picture book written by Caroline L Perry and illustrated by Lydia Corry telling the story of Elizabeth II and her lifelong love of corgis.
Alice Milner-Watt, commissioning editor, secured UK and Commonwealth English language rights to The Corgi and the Queen from Charlotte Bodman at Rights People and Allison Remcheck at Stimola Literary Studio.
Andersen Press will publish the hardback in January 2023, followed by a paperback in April 2023, in time for the lead-up to the coronation of King Charles III.
The publisher describes The Corgi and the Queen as “a stunning new narrative non-fiction picture book showcasing the fascinating true story of a young Queen Elizabeth II and her remarkable relationship with Susan, her beloved first corgi”.
It continues: “From the age of 18 when her father King George VI gifted Susan to the young Elizabeth, she accompanied Princess Elizabeth everywhere she went – even secretly riding in her glass carriage on her wedding day to Prince Philip! Susan was there for Elizabeth when her Papa died and she was crowned Queen Elizabeth II, and remained at her side as a faithful companion in her early years as a Queen and later as a mother.
“This picture book provides a fascinating window into the life of Queen Elizabeth II from young princess to beloved Queen, told through her enduring love of her corgis.”
Perry said: “I had often wondered what had sparked Queen Elizabeth II’s life-long love affair with corgis, the little dogs who were so emblematic of her reign. When I learned about Susan, the Pembroke Welsh corgi puppy that Elizabeth received as an 18th birthday gift from her father, King George VI, I was utterly enchanted.
“Susan was the teenage princess’ constant companion, comforting her during the dark days of the Second World War, and later taking part in Elizabeth’s wedding to Prince Philip. Susan accompanied the newlyweds on their honeymoon, and she was also by Elizabeth’s side when she became Queen at the age of 25, after her beloved ‘Papa’ died unexpectedly. This beautiful friendship founded a regal dog dynasty, with 14 generations of royal corgis directly descended from Susan.
“Although my life could not be more different from Queen Elizabeth’s, I felt deeply connected with this story. During my childhood my pets helped me in ways that people often couldn’t, and I think all animal lovers can relate. I hope that this book serves as a tribute to a truly remarkable monarch, and to the corgis who were always by her side.”
Milner-Watt commented: “With a focus on the young Queen and her long-standing bond with her dogs, this is a truly unique tribute to Queen Elizabeth II’s life: as a dog lover, a mother, and a revered monarch. We are thrilled to be publishing this beautiful picture book on the Andersen Press list.”