KINGS AND QUEENS
Rev. ed.
by Eleanor Farjeon & Herbert Farjeon & illustrated by Rosalind Thornycroft
This is a reissue, with addition of verses devoted to Edward VIII and George VI. First published in 1933, this rapidly became a minor classic in English households. How extensive its acceptance is here is still a question in my mind. One really needs considerable background on English history—and a very special kind of humor to appreciate the subtleties of reference, the quirks of characterization, the appropriateness of the choice of meters to the handling. Rosalind Thornycroft's illustrations (they would provide a whole new inspiration for a pack of cards) also need adult interpretation. Limited—I should think.