Queen Camilla has paved the way to be something of an unconventional consort in that she’s unafraid to highlight the most complex causes: domestic violence, gender equality and helping victims of sexual abuse. But in among the darkness of those topics is a light provided by her other passion – reading.
With every joy and heartbreak of the 76-year-old Queen’s life playing out like the storyline of a best-selling novel, it is understandable that her love of books has offered her an escape from the pressures of royal life.
And as The Queen’s Reading Room Festival returned to London with a bang for its second year, literary fans were in for a treat when a glittering line-up of authors and actors descended on Hampton Court Palace to celebrate the reach and influence of the written word.
The festival, which was attended by the Queen, sold an incredible 10,000 tickets and was a day filled with unique performances, talks by some of the UK’s leading authors and a wonderful finale involving Miriam Margolyes and Gyles Brandreth celebrating the life and work of Charles Dickens, as Queen Camilla, her son Tom Parker-Bowles and other members of the royal family watched on.
It was a joyous event, and one which Camilla had a huge hand in organising, CEO of the Queen’s Reading Room charity, Vicki Perrin, exclusively tells OK!.
“Whenever we meet to talk about what’s next for the Queen’s Reading Room, the level of detail and the passion that the Queen brings to it is impressive. You can really tell that this is her baby and that she cares so much about it.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Savoury saviours
Get ahead with simple spicy suppers from Nadiya Hussain
RECIPES FOR SUCCESS - I want to share the way I cook and the way I eat'
Chef Nadiya Hussain on the money-saving cooking tips and vital life skills that she teaches her children.
THE WILD ONE - Nobody tried to change me that was who I am
Rock star Suzi Quatro on leading the way for women, being true to herself and her 60th anniversary tour
CELEBRITIES PUT ON THE GLITZ FOR TV'S BIGGEST NIGHT
Famous faces gathered at the National Television Awards last week to celebrate the best of Britain's TV talent
IN THE PINK - I feel like myself again now I'm back in the Strictly family'
After documenting her brutal cancer journey, Strictly favourite Amy Dowden shares her joy at returning to the dance floor
STYLE COUNSEL - My friendships are one of my greatest successes'
As stylist Gok Wan celebrates his milestone birthday, he reflects on his personal losses, biggest achievements and plans for the future
STEP BACK IN TIME - STARS ENJOY A DAY AT THE RACES
A host of celebrities attended the Goodwood Revival festival last week to see the classic cars and fabulous retro fashions
GOOD CLEAN FUN - 'I really like to organise things I find it therapeutic'
Sort Your Life Out presenter Stacey Solomon on how tidying up helps her shut out anxious thoughts, the reason she only shares happy memories on social media, and why it's husband Joe Swash who puts out the bins
SHINING BRIGHT - KATE'S MESSAGE OF HOPE
Her emotional health update video made it clear that the Princess of Wales' family comes first, says former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond.
My family will always be my main priority'
Model and actress Caprice invites OK! into her stylish home to talk about fame and why nothing beats being with her kids.