Story of Anna and the King [Paperback]

Cecelia Holland (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 1, 1999

Here is the ''real'' story behind the woman who inspired a bestselling biography, one of the top Broadway musicals of all time, and two classic films--and it's one that will surprise you. The epic love story between a British governess and the King of Siam once again comes to life with the release of Twentieth Century Fox's ''Anna and the King'' starring Academy Award-winning actress Jodie Foster and international superstar Chow Yun-Fat. ''The Story of Anna and the King'' captures all the nuances of this extraordinary relationship, as well as the extravagant film depicting it, in lush, full-color photographs. Cecelia Holland weaves a beautiful narrative of the true histories behind Anna Leonowens and the Siamese royal family, as well as the political and cultural rises and falls of Siam--present-day Thailand--based on historical information and the published works of Anna Leonowens. Filmed entirely in Malaysia, ''Anna and the King'' features one of the largest motion picture sets ever constructed--the King's Palace, which covers more than eight acres of land. Under the direction of Andy Tennant, an international cast and crew representing more than twenty countries works with a myriad of stunning ornate costumes, thousands of extras, and a menagerie of specially trained animals, ''The Story of Anna and the King'' invites you to enter King Mongkut's world.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Cecelia Holland is an acclaimed historical novelist known for combining vivid plots, impeccably researched historical backgrounds, and emotionally believable characters. Her latest novels include ''Jerusalem,'' and tale of the Crusades, which the New York Times called ''vivid and deeply felt...brings as much suspense to political intrigue as the sprawling battle scenes at which she excels,'' and Railroad Schemes, ''a rousing, companionable tale with attractive people, full of dash, thundering hoofbeats, and clattering wheels on new-forged rails'' (Kirkus).

Product Details

• Paperback: 137 pages
• Publisher: Harper Perennial (March 1, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0788198408
• ISBN-13: 978-0788198403
• Product Dimensions: 11.6 x 9.6 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.4 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #807,679 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Fascinating, February 3, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: The Story of Anna and the King (Paperback)

I really didn't expect too much out of this book. But I was quite pleasantly surprised to find myself thoroughly enjoying it. It gives background to so many of the customs and questions about Siam. It was very interesting to read because it made the story of Anna and the King more understandable and easier to relate to. It gives real story behind each character, but it also explains where this movie came from. If you enjoyed the movie, this is the book to get. It has a lot of awesome pictures, and it tells how the story developed from the true story to a wonderful tale. I think everyone understands that the movie isn't very true, so this book is perfect for learning the truth, and also learning more about the movie. If that's what you're looking for...here it is!

7 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A good buy! And a great movie!, January 26, 2000

By 

mlizama (usa) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Story of Anna and the King (Paperback)

A good book on the making of the movie Anna and the King and a brief on the history of the Chakkri Dynasty. Disapointed only that the author did not give details on production of the movie. Such as why did they produce the film in Malaysia recreating elaborate sets and imitations of the real thing in the real country, Thailand? And the fact that it was banned in Thailand. Otherwise a good buy, especially if you enjoyed the movie.

2 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Perfect 'Anna' book!!, September 4, 2000

By 

"annairis" (SF SD) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Story of Anna and the King (Paperback)

Being obsessed with all things 'Anna', I had to have this book, just because its about 'Anna'. But I can't believe how cool it is beyond that. It is a behind the scenes guide, beautiful, glossy picture book, and well-researched, informative, awesome history lesson in one. It totally quenched my need for 'Anna'!! I reccomend this to fans, historians and movie buffs alike. Ceccelia Holland is brilliant; you can tell she really thought about this and did her homework. My copy is priceles to me. Please get this!