Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has carried out her role as Sovereign with flawless professionalism. Her demeanour has been perfect, and in the seventy years she has reigned she has epitomised all the hallmarks of an iconic sovereign beloved of her people.

As Heir Presumptive, the young Princess Elizabeth received special tuition in law and constitutional history to prepare her for her future role as Sovereign.

When she succeeded her father, King George VI, on 6^th February 1952, Elizabeth was only twenty-five years old. Married for just five years with two young children, her life changed irrevocably. The responsibilities of monarchy have taken precedence over all else, and the public duties invariably have first call on the Queen’s time and energy.

This book celebrates the highlights and challenges of the Queen’s reign over the past seven decades:

• Recalls Princess Elizabeth’s childhood and the war years
• Includes accounts of the Accession and Coronation when she was still a young woman
• Details each decade of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, focussing on both her working life and her family
• Describes in detail a typical working day for the sovereign
• A special focus on the enduring contribution Her Majesty has made to life in the UK and the Commonwealth, as well as her enviable reputation worldwide
• A true celebration in honour of our Queen’s Platinum Jubilee