The Story of Anna and the King (Paperback)

by Cecelia Holland (Author)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description
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 surpirse 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 internatonal 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 Kinginvites you to enter King Mongkut's world.

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). Cecelia lives in northern California.

Product Details

• Paperback: 144 pages
• Publisher: Harper Paperbacks; 1st edition (December 8, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0061073725
• ISBN-13: 978-0061073724
• Product Dimensions: 11.7 x 10 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.6 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,731,565 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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

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

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 An Excellent Book!, July 1, 2000

By A Customer

If you enjoyed "Anna and the King," I think you will love this book. It is filled with huge glossy photos, many of them close-ups of Jodie Foster and Chow Yun-Fat as well as the beautiful sets and landscapes. It contains tons of historical background information on the movie and makes for a very interesting read. I highly recommend it.