The Little Princesses

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In 1930s England, two little princesses, Elizabeth and Margaret Rose, navigated a world of royal intrigue. Their father, the Duke of York, became King after Uncle David, King Edward VIII, abdicated to marry Wallis Simpson. This marked a significant shift for the family, as ten-year-old Elizabeth became the heir to the throne she would hold for over fifty years. The narrative begins with the Duke and Duchess seeking an educator for their daughters, then aged five and two. They already had a nanny, but needed someone younger and more vibrant. Enter Marion Crawford, affectionately nicknamed "Crawfie" by Elizabeth, who would remain with the family for sixteen years. From their home in Piccadilly to Buckingham Palace, Crawfie recounts her efforts to raise the princesses as "Royal" while introducing them to everyday experiences like underground trains and swimming lessons. First published in 1950, this account garnered immense attention, being the first published memoir of life with the Royals. Despite its heartfelt portrayal of the young Queen and Princess Margaret, Crawfie faced backlash from the press, and her relationship with the Queen Mother soured. With a new introduction by BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond, this work provides intriguing insights into the evolving lives of Britain’s royal family.