Review: The King’s Speech
After the success of The King’s Speech in 2010, I’m sure most people are familiar with the story of King George VI and his speech therapist, Lionel Logue, but, for those who aren’t, King George VI was thrust into the monarchy when his older brother renounced the throne. King George suffered from a stutter so public speaking was agonizing for him. He tried anything and everything and nothing worked until he began working with Lionel Logue. The two men formed a lifelong friendship.
Mark Logue was given some of his father’s papers as the movie was being filmed and decided to write his father’s story with the help of Peter Conradi and, boy, am I glad he did. As much as I loved the movie, I thought The King’s Speech: How One Man Saved the British Monarchy was even better. I loved this book and listened to the audio version in record time.
The book provides an intimate portrait of both men and their families, as well as their relationship with each other. It also gives a peek into their motivations and how their relationship affected the rest of their lives. I was fascinated with the story from the very beginning not only for the details of the relationship between the king and his speech therapist but also for all the historical detail. I can only imagine what the king was going through, trying to establish his monarchy while dealing with a speech impediment as well as a country at war, and this book gave me an idea of the kind of strength it took.
The audio version of The King’s Speech is narrated by Simon Vance and he was the perfect choice for this marvelous book – I cannot imagine anyone else doing it as well. The audio contains a couple of the king’s original speeches as well as Vance’s outstanding narration. It lasts approximately 7 hours. I just loved this audiobook and think it’s perfect for those new to audios as well as seasoned listeners.
Review copy provided by Tantor Audio. I am an Indiebound Affiliate.
I really enjoyed the film, so I’m glad to see the book is just as good, if not better.
This sounds wonderful. I loved the movie!
Loved the movie ; glad u enjoyed the audio
I loved the movie but rarely can make myself go to a book after I’ve seen the movie!
I hate to do it backwards too, but I think in case, since it is historical, there would surely be lots of details in the book that were missed in the movie. And you don’t have to tell me twice to listen to Simon Vance. I’d listen to him say anything.
I still haven’t watched the movie. I’m glad you enjoyed the audio.
I loved the movie, and would love to listen to the book as well. It sounds so interesting, and I love that the men remained friends and confidants for the rest of their days. Such an inspiring story. I loved this review.
Loved the movie also, glad you enjoyed the audio version.
I loved the movie, and I have the audiobook sitting on my coffee table. I checked it out from the library last week on impulse. Hopefully I’ll be able to fit it in before it’s due back. It’s great to see that you liked it so much.
I really liked the movie. I was captivated by Mr. Logan and his techniques. Now I want to listen to this audio and see the movie again.
I’m glad you enjoyed this book too! 🙂 The audio edition must miss out the few fragments and photos – it’s definitely worth having a look at the physical edition to see.
I loved this movie and I bet I’d love the audio book too.
I did like the movie .)
I really liked this movie a LOT and had no idea that it was a book first. If I had I definitely would have read the book before seeing the movie 🙂
I really liked this movie and it made me want to learn more about this king and the time period. Sounds like this book would be perfect for that!
I was going to pass on the book because I figured it’d seem like a rehash after seeing the movie. You’ve convinced me that I should find a way to listen.
I loved the movie and it sounds like the book is a winner too. I hear Simon Vance is a great narrator so it seems like a perfect match.
Hmmm…I am sure it’s wonderful…and serious…and really good. I am so glad you loved it!
I only saw the movie but loved it. I can imagine Vance’s voice narrating the audiobook, and I bet it was awesome!
I won a copy of this audio from LitHousewife, and your review makes me want to get to this sooner!!
I bet Jason would love the audio. We both liked the movie, but the audio would totally be his speed.
I thought the movie was excellent and if the book’s better, well, it must be spectacular then. Wonderful review, Kathy! I’m glad you greatly enjoyed the audiobook.
I have yet to either read the book or see the movie. I keep meaning to though. Thanks for the reminder.
Dug the movie! I’m sure the audio is great too
I loved the movie, so I wouldn’t mind checking out the book at some point.
I haven’t watched this movie yet but everyone I know tells me they loved it. So I am thrilled that you loved this book even more. I will check it out.
I haven’t seen this movie yet, but I do want to. It sounds like a good one.
I’ve been looking for a book to listen to that has Simon Vance as the narrator and this sounds absolutely perfect. Thanks!
I’ve heard Simon Vance is an excellent narrator, but I have yet to experience it for myself. I haven’t seen the movie or read this book, but I’d like to.
I put the book on my audio wish list right after seeing the movie – thanks for reminding me. Simon Vance is always a favorite!
This sounds amazing!! Going on my list at audible!! I loved loved loved the movie!