King Maker

by Geordie Greig

Louis Greig, a war hero and rugby international, entered the privileged world of the British royal family as mentor, physician and friend to a young and hesitant Prince Albert, the man who became King George VI and whose challenges were so vividly brought to life in the award winning film, The King's Speech. Greig's influence helped to guide the prince from a stammering, shy schoolboy to become one of the most respected constitutional monarchs, seeing the nation through the Second World War and bringing the monarchy closer to the people. Geordie Greig, grandson of Louis Greig, has drawn on private family papers and public archives to reveal an intimate friendship which lasted almost half a century. Previously published as Louis and the Prince by Hodder and Stoughton.

Genres: History, Biography, British Literature

352 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2011

Reviews

[Meg · Rating 2 out of 5]

As mentioned in another review, not at all well-written - something of a surprise, as the author has an editing background. This reader found it difficult to retain interest in parts. The King's Speech: How One Man Saved the British Monarchy is much more engaging (and better written), and I recommend it over this one. A shame, as the subject is an interesting one.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting information but not particularly well written

[Susann · Rating 5 out of 5]

A perfectly lovely book

I enjoy reading about the lives of British monarchs and have read many of them over the years. I cannot say enough good things about this one. It was well written, a fascinating look behind the scenes of royal life as seen through the eyes of Louis Grieg, an extraordinary personality. The book is written by his grandson who not only had an inside peek but is clearly enthralled by his grandfather's life story. The elder Grieg had a life rich in talents and experiences from being a rugby star to an MD during WWI, a prisoner of war, a mentor to George VI from his early awkward years, to knowing every one and being quite the fixer later in life. A kind man with many many friends and the ability to pull strings not for his own aggrandizement but to help those he cared about. He was a good friend to Queen Mary and through this book, you see a softer side of her personality. The best part is the sweet picture presented of George VI and how he overcame his many handicaps, both physical and psychological with Grieg's help. A rival film about Louis' achievements with the king would be a great companion to The King's Speech, as Grieg helped the king much before he was crowned. A fabulous read.

[Kealani · Rating 4 out of 5]

King Maker and Facilitator of history

Kind biography of Louis Grieg, the man to whom George V turned to out-source the parenting of his teenaged second son. Greig was a complete action man: doctor, p.o.w., sports hero. His careful encouragement helped mould a shy, stammering, awkward princeling into a courageous, compassionate leader. Greig knew everyone, knew how to raise helpful funds for royal charities, knew how to ease the blend of all levels of hierarchy, how to connect the very individuals who efforts ought to combine . to keep the Court of St. James in motion toward modern times. His actions dovetail and weave together so many workings of history. Read with fascination.

[Darla Ebert · Rating 5 out of 5]

I learned so much about the time period from this unique book, which is what I look for before wanting to find someone who is interesting enough to have a book written about him or her. There was a meekness in the Prince who became King that filters through to the reader. A kind and family-oriented man who only wanted to fit in and be normal...this transcends all that is written of him. The best friend of Prince Albert (who became King George VI) was indeed a quality friend. The life of Louis G. blends well with the royals.

[Kris Diller · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very interesting and accomplished chap

I loved the author's rich vocabulary., His father, the subject of the book, sounded utterly captivating and like the ultimate altruist. The book maintained a steady pace until towards the end when Louis's political associations made it drag somewhat.

[Jane Thompson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Monarch Story

Interesting story, it seems hard to believe that.a prince should have that much trouble adjusting but it is good that there was someone who could help him. I had heard of someone helping with his stammering but I did not know he he needed help wit do many aspects of his life

[Joe Oaster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this book in one day. I know some of the reviews stated the writing was not good, I did not find that to be the case. Even though I am an American, I have a fascination with British Royalty. I admire what King George had to overcome to become the man he was. Mentors are so valuable in our lives, and Sir Louis was a great mentor, friend and confidant to the king.

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

I haven't actually finished this book and I might pick it up later but what I've read has been informational without being gripping. :-)

[Matthew Barker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four stars for the content rather than the quality of writing, which I found a little ‘twee’. An incredible life, well worth documenting.

[Gordon Kwok · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent book about the lifelong friendship between Louis Grieg and King George VI and how that friendship helped a shy teenager become one of the greatest monarchs in modern British history. Recommended for those who enjoy royal history.

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bought bec enjoyed breakfast with lucian

[E · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful! But WTF was the movie about? Never actually happened.