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The King and the Christmas Tree
- Narrated by: Saul Reichlin
- Length: 2 hrs and 51 mins
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The King and the Christmas Tree
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Summary
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 warships made their way towards Oslo. It seemed inevitable that Norway, like so many other European nations, would soon submit to the Nazi regime. But the country's indomitable King Haakon VII refused to surrender. Making his escape through his country towards the safe haven of Britain, King Haakon became an icon of hope for his people. And so, more than 70 years later, the tree in Trafalgar Square remains as an enduring gift of thanks from Norway to the people of Britain.
In The King and the Christmas Tree historian A. N. Wilson artfully weaves together this tale of courage and friendship between nations. Beautifully told, it is a delightful Christmas cracker for everyone, young and old alike.
Critic reviews
"An unlikely hero has a master storyteller to tell his tale. The King and the Christmas Tree is a poignant Christmas treat." (Lucy Worsley, historian, broadcaster and author)