Book lovers believe that reading a book can change a life. So what happens if the life that is changed is one that touches many others? That is the question at the heart of Alan Bennett's charming novella, The Uncommon Reader. The reader in question is Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. Following her dogs around the palace grounds one day, she comes across the local library bookmobile. Her natural curiosity prompts her to go inside, and, once there, she feels it's only polite to check out a book. As she decides what book to select, she meets the only other patron of the traveling library, a young man named Norman who works in the kitchens. From that point on, books and Norman have a growing influence on the Queen.
Many of us will find Her Majesty's behavior familiar. She pleads a cold so that she can finish her book. She begins to question others about their reading habits. Her walks with the corgis become shorter. After a lifetime of duty, she begins to read for the simple enjoyment of it. The reaction of her family, staff, and subjects is less than enthusiastic.
This portrayal of Queen Elizabeth is light and fun, and the peek into her life, whether accurate or not, is fascinating to consider. At 120 pages, the novella is easy to slip into a pocket. The audio version is narrated by the author, who portrays the characters with great skill and humor. In either version, you'll enjoy the impact of books on The Uncommon Reader.
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