Queen Camilla has revealed that she will star in a new BBC documentary showcasing the life-transforming power of books. Queen Camilla is long known for her love of reading, having recently reached the fifth anniversary of the Reading Room.
The Reading Room is a literary charity and book community founded by the Queen. The 78-year-old held a literacy event at Clarence House earlier today, which saw the royal welcome authors, members of the literary community and representatives from The Queen’s Reading Room to celebrate the first recipients of The Queen’s Reading Room Medal. During the reception, Camilla spoke of her surprise at reaching her initiative’s fifth anniversary, she told attendees: « I find it hard to believe that it is five years since I founded it, at the height of lockdown, with the simple aim of sharing my lifelong conviction that books make life better… »
Her Majesty added: « I’m also delighted to announce that we have partnered with the BBC and Blink Films for a major new documentary that will showcase the life-transforming power of books – my father’s and my own experience included – for which the cameras are filming here today. »
She said: « Now, those of you who were here last year will remember that we have created the Queen’s Reading Room Medal, to shine a light on the importance and impact of volunteering.
« Nominations were received from all over the UK, with truly inspiring stories of people helping others to access books, spreading the joy of reading and using it as a tool to improve even the toughest of lives. In a minute, we will hear from Vicki who the winners of the first Medal are. »
As well as the Queen, the documentary will feature individuals from a wide range of backgrounds who all share one thing – moving stories of resilience and renewal, fostered by reading. It will focus on the idea of finding solace in a book while in prison, to overcoming deep depression through the connection of a local book club, or finding the inspiration to completely change their life, these stories reveal how books offer salvation, hope, joy, deep connection and fresh perspectives when people need them most.
Co-Founder of Blink Films and Executive Producer Dan Chambers says: « We’re all delighted to be exploring the transformative effects of reading, and so grateful to Her Majesty The Queen for her ongoing support for the project and for agreeing to go on camera herself. »
Although it remains unclear how far into the filming process the documentary is, some scenes were captured at the event today. The film is set to air later this year.
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