An original 1941 first edition of *The King and Queen With Their People*, published by John Murray of Albemarle Street, London. This illustrated wartime publication provides a fascinating photographic record of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (later the Queen Mother) and their efforts to support the British public during WW2.

Published during the war itself, the book documents the Royal Couple’s visits to communities affected by German bombing raids, alongside their engagements with Civil Defence personnel, servicemen, factory workers and ordinary British civilians. Its numerous black-and-white photographs capture both the devastation caused by the Blitz and the determination of the British people to continue with everyday life despite the hardships of war.

Of particular interest to collectors of British Home Front memorabilia are the photographs showing the King and Queen visiting bomb-damaged streets, meeting those affected by air raids and acknowledging the work of the various civilian organisations involved in Britain’s wartime defence.

An interesting feature of the publication is its charitable purpose. The opening pages explain that profits from sales were to be donated to wartime charities providing assistance to those affected by the disasters depicted within the book.

Printed in Great Britain by Hazell, Watson & Viney Ltd, this is an original wartime publication rather than a post-war retrospective, making it an appealing piece of contemporary British social history.

The book remains in fair to good original condition, displaying age-related wear consistent with its age and use. The illustrated front cover remains reasonably well preserved, although there is noticeable rubbing, discolouration and wear around the edges. The rear cover displays similar general wear, whilst the spine has suffered more significantly, with cracking, fraying and some loss of its covering material, particularly towards the upper end. Internally, the pages appear generally clean and well preserved, with the photographic illustrations retaining good clarity and contrast. Some foxing and age-related discolouration are present, particularly towards the opening pages. A handwritten dedication reading ‘To Joe, From Gran and Gramp’ is also present. Please refer to the accompanying photographs for a clearer indication of the book’s overall condition.

An interesting and evocative example of British wartime publishing, offering a contemporary glimpse into the Royal Family’s relationship with the civilian population during the Blitz and the wider British Home Front of WW2.