The King and the Christmas Tree

Description

Every December, a huge Christmas tree arrives in Trafalgar Square. Bedecked

in lights, it is a shimmering, festive beacon in the heart of London. But even

more enchanting than the twinkling decorations and scented pine is the story

behind the tree; a story of loyalty, friendship and resistance.

On a cold evening in 1940, German w arships made their w ay tow ards Oslo. It

seemed inevitable that Norw ay, like so many other European nations, w ould soon

submit to the Nazi regime. But the country's indomitable King Haakon VII refused to

surrender. Making his escape through his country tow ards the safe haven of Britain,

King Haakon became an icon of hope for his people. And so, over seventy years

later, the tree in Trafalgar Square remains as an enduring gift of thanks from

Norw ay to the people of Britain.

In The King and the Christmas Tree historian A. N. W ilson artfully w eaves together

this tale of courage and friendship betw een nations. Richly illustrated and

beautifully told, it is a delightful Christmas cracker for everyone, young and old

alike.