King George V

This biography of Elizabeth's grandfather is well done. The writing is clear, the paragraphs and chapters in the book are easy to follow, and Rose's use of primary sources is first rate. I found out much about George V as a person. His relationship with his family is developed well. George's many idiosyncrasies, from his intense passion for shooting to his dislike for foreign travel, are all here. He could be gruff and charming, often quickly to the same person. He disliked new technology but his first Christmas radio broadcast was beautifully done. Rose spells out in some detail George's interaction and personal reactions to the Prime Ministers during his reign. In an age in which the monarch has so many constitutional limits, developing the personal characteristics of the man is vital to a full biography. Rose does this successfully.Among many highlights for me were Rose's discussion of the debate over power between the Commons and the Lords early in George's reign. The new monarch did a remarkable job of walking this tightrope. I also thought that the discussion of the deep economic crisis of the early 30's was very well done. Again the King, by now a seasoned ruler, did all he could given the constitutional constraints on him and Rose successfully walks the line between a personal biography and the larger political situation in Britain. The chapter on the Great War is also very good. Rose is able to bring consistently into the book the King's role and yet keep the larger political picture in front of the reader's mind. He accomplishes this many times.I found very little to dislike in this book. I learned a great deal about George as a person and a great deal about how Britain went through several traumatic events in the early 20th century. The book is detailed without being pedantic or "dry." It is a strong summary of some critical years for the country from the perspective of a very traditional but generous and charming king.

This official biography is a balanced account of a man who was a steadfast, hard working King. George V was a rigid, stubborn individual and not a particularly good parent, but he was a reliable man who was devoted to his country. He was the moral compass of his country during WWI and the government could count on his support and guidance. Rose has done a good job of illuminating George as a man and a king.

I have no way of rating this, as it was a gift for my son. He specifically asked for it. The book came used from a third party seller as a library copy. The book is in excellent condition, in our opinion exceeding the condition description of the seller. I know my son will be pleased with it.

Excellently written and informative biography of the Queen's Grandfather.Very readable and full of anecdotes which give an insight into the man who started the House of Windsor. Fiercely patriotic and hated the 'German' connection.If you want to get an overview of the history of the period - read this book.

Excellent researched bio here. Well written in the Royal Bio style of reverence with a few noticeable warts.

HM King George V is one of my favorite member of the British Royal Family. I've read about this book multiple times that I just had to purchase it.

I was very happy

Great history of the one of the important royals of British history. Good read of a complex man in a changing British world.

Kenneth Rose informs the reader in the prologue of this scrupulously researched biography of King George V, that his subject was born out of the direct line of succession to the throne, had only received the limited education of a nineteenth century naval officer, and was further handicapped by his ingrained conservatism; he tells us: "He was indifferent to science and politics, to history and the arts; he spoke scarcely a word of any foreign language. Public ceremonial affected his nerves and entertainment his digestion. Few could regard his accession with enthusiasm, or even confidence." Reading this, right at the beginning of the biography, one would be forgiven for wondering whether George V would be an interesting enough character to justify the book's 500+ pages; however, Kenneth Rose, who has used material drawn from fifty archive collections, including extracts from the King's diaries, has written an in-depth and very interesting biography which shows that George V surprised his detractors, and how, under the direction of two experienced private secretaries, he applied himself to the role and learnt how to become a successful constitutional monarch and a dutiful, respected and popular king.Mr Rose shows a good understanding of his subject and, having been allowed special access to information about the King's private and public life, he has been able to produce a well-rounded portrayal of George V, and a biography which, although full of political drama, is also interspersed with some amusing anecdotes, making this both an informative and an enjoyable read. The author also takes time out from the factual information he presents, to explain in detail (as far as he is able) how the outlook and personality of his subject affected his response to the difficult decisions he was required to make, and how he also had to put personal feelings aside, especially when he had to deny asylum to his cousin, Tsar Nicholas II and his family, who were later executed by revolutionaries. I must admit that initially I wasn't hugely interested in reading a biography about George V, but having read and enjoyed Jane Ridley's biography of his father, Edward VII ( The Heir Apparent: A Life of Edward VII ) and looking forward to reading Philip Ziegler's biography of his son, Edward VIII ( King Edward VIII ), I felt I should really learn more about George V, and I am very glad that I now have. A deftly-crafted, meticulously researched and very well-written account.4.5 Stars. The Heir Apparent: A Life of Edward VIIKing Edward VIII

Kenneth Rose has written a truly excellent biography revealing the true character of the 'gruff' King, perhaps not so gruff after all. The governments of the day are meticulous described and the King's part in them. His devotion to Queen Mary is touchingly described, she was a huge support to him. This book was a prize winner when it was first published and deservedly so.

This edition of "King George V " was sold as used with some shelf damage. It arrived ahead of the given schedule and was beautifully packed. The book was as new - no marks, scrapes or discolouration anywhere. It was perfect and a huge saving on a hard-copy. The text was a little small but the lighter days arrived virtually at the same time as the book and I rapidly became used to it. The content of the book was as good as the article which I read in the "Telegraph" at the time of Kenneth Rose's death was very accurate. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading it.

Good book but in a shameful state

This is a brilliant well researched witty biography.Rose is outstanding.It is fun to read.