- Michael Morpurgo, Illustrated by Michael Foreman

The Boy Who Would Be King

By Michael Morpurgo, Illustrated by Michael Foreman

A TOP 10 CHILDREN’S FICTION BESTSELLER

A beautifully illustrated full-colour tribute to King Charles III, published to mark his coronation – from the bestselling creators of There Once Is a Queen.

There once was a boy who was going to be king one day . . .

From the Nation’s Favourite Storyteller Sir Michael Morpurgo comes a poetic celebration of our new monarch, King Charles III, beautifully illustrated in watercolour by acclaimed artist Michael Foreman.

There once was a little boy, born a prince. Encouraged by his parents, he grew up with a passion for the countryside, wanting to look after it. Then, as the longest-serving Prince of Wales in British history, he dedicated decades of his life to raising awareness for conservation. Now our king, his devoted work will continue to inspire the protection of our planet for future generations.

This allegorical story tells how – with the help of a tiny acorn – a wise old woman gives a lonely boy, who would be king, the courage and determination to change the world for the better, for everyone. An exquisite companion to There Once Was a Queen, this commemoration of King Charles III’s coronation is a gift book truly to be treasured.

Author: Michael Morpurgo
Format: Hardback
Ageband: from 5
Release Date: 13 Apr 2023
Pages: 72
ISBN: 978-0-00-861540-6
Sir Michael Morpurgo OBE FRSL FKC DL is a writer, playwright, performer and librettist. The author of more than 150 children’s books, he has sold over 35 million copies worldwide and in almost 40 languages. A former teacher and vocal spokesperson for the benefits of reading for pleasure, he is currently the President of Book Trust. Between 2003–2005 he was Children’s Laureate and in 2018 he was knighted for services to literature and charity. Many of Michael’s books have been adapted for stage and screen, including the phenomenal National Theatre adaptation of War Horse, which has been seen by over 10 million people in over 100 cities around the world, broke the West End record for weekly ticket sales, and won 5 Tony Awards and 2 Olivier Awards. Michael is also the co-founder, with his wife Clare, of the charity Farms for City Children.

Praise for Michael Morpurgo:“A master storyteller at his best” The Sunday Times -

“Michael Morpurgo writes brilliantly about war and animals, conveying the big emotions without preaching.” Guardian -

“Champagne quality over a wide range of subjects.” Daily Telegraph -

“There are few children’s writers as compelling as Michael Morpurgo.” Daily Express -

Praise for The Butterfly Lion by Michael Morpurgo:“The Butterfly Lion is unique among animals and books, and will touch all hearts - both young and old.” Virginia McKenna, Born Free Foundation -