The Queen: A Revealing Look at the Private Life of Elizabeth II

British journalist Keay portrays Queen Elizabeth II as a vibrant human being rather than merely a personage in a singular situation. He draws on interviews with Prince Philip and Prince Charles, along with household staff members and other insiders, to tell the lively story. Richly detailed descriptions recall 1937, when shy, 11-year-old ``Princess Lilibet'' began to prepare herself for the throne she would inherit in 1952 from her father, George VI. Covering events during the queen's reign--40 years of joys and trials--Keay shows contradictory sides of the private woman: enormously wealthy, she is notoriously stingy; considered dully unresponsive, Elizabeth is quietly witty. But above all, the book reveals an admirable character who never shirks her duties. Readers will empathize with Elizabeth II, who, amid family embarrassments and public criticisms, continues to occupy the throne with dignity and composure. Photos. (June)