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An unlikely hero has a master storyteller to tell his tale. The King and the Christmas Tree is a poignant Christmas treat.' Lucy Worsley, historian, broadcaster and author
Every December, a huge Christmas tree arrives in Trafalgar Square. Bedecked in lights, it is a shimmering, festive beacon in the heart of London. But even more enchanting than the twinkling decorations and scented pine is the story behind the tree; a story of loyalty, friendship and resistance.
On a cold evening in 1940, German warships made their way towards Oslo. It seemed inevitable that Norway, like so many other European nations, would soon submit to the Nazi regime. But the country's indomitable King Haakon VII refused to surrender. Making his escape through his country towards the safe haven of Britain, King Haakon became an icon of hope for his people. And so, over seventy years later, the tree in Trafalgar Square remains as an enduring gift of thanks from Norway to the people of Britain.
In The King and the Christmas Tree historian A. N. Wilson artfully weaves together this tale of courage and friendship between nations. Richly illustrated and beautifully told, it is a delightful Christmas cracker for everyone, young and old alike. A. N. Wilson holds a prominent position in the world of literature and journalism. He is a prolific and award-winning biographer and celebrated novelist. He lives in North London. From bestselling author A. N. Wilson, a Christmas delight: the little known story of the Christmas tree that stands in Trafalgar Square each December. A. N. Wilson is hugely respected in his field, having released multiple best-selling biographies. The authority which he lends to this story, which already has the makings of the classic, is sure to attract many readers. The King and the Christmas Tree will have a wide appeal, capturing the interest of those who are fans of historical biography, nostalgia and books celebrating British culture. Whilst there are plenty of stories detailing courageous acts of the second world war, and plenty more which detail the occupation of France, The King and the Christmas Tree provides a story rarely discussed in common remembrances of WWII. In doing so it shines a light on the little-known bravery of a monarch and his people and the historic bond between Britain and Norway.
Every December, a huge Christmas tree arrives in Trafalgar Square. Bedecked in lights, it is a shimmering, festive beacon in the heart of London. But even more enchanting than the twinkling decorations and scented pine is the story behind the tree; a story of loyalty, friendship and resistance.
On a cold evening in 1940, German warships made their way towards Oslo. It seemed inevitable that Norway, like so many other European nations, would soon submit to the Nazi regime. But the country's indomitable King Haakon VII refused to surrender. Making his escape through his country towards the safe haven of Britain, King Haakon became an icon of hope for his people. And so, over seventy years later, the tree in Trafalgar Square remains as an enduring gift of thanks from Norway to the people of Britain.
In The King and the Christmas Tree historian A. N. Wilson artfully weaves together this tale of courage and friendship between nations. Richly illustrated and beautifully told, it is a delightful Christmas cracker for everyone, young and old alike. A. N. Wilson holds a prominent position in the world of literature and journalism. He is a prolific and award-winning biographer and celebrated novelist. He lives in North London. From bestselling author A. N. Wilson, a Christmas delight: the little known story of the Christmas tree that stands in Trafalgar Square each December. A. N. Wilson is hugely respected in his field, having released multiple best-selling biographies. The authority which he lends to this story, which already has the makings of the classic, is sure to attract many readers. The King and the Christmas Tree will have a wide appeal, capturing the interest of those who are fans of historical biography, nostalgia and books celebrating British culture. Whilst there are plenty of stories detailing courageous acts of the second world war, and plenty more which detail the occupation of France, The King and the Christmas Tree provides a story rarely discussed in common remembrances of WWII. In doing so it shines a light on the little-known bravery of a monarch and his people and the historic bond between Britain and Norway.