Queen Camilla has credited her father, Major Bruce Shand, with inspiring her lifelong passion for books, recalling how he would read to her and her siblings when they were young. In a video shared by the Royal Family, the Queen reflects on some of the stories that stayed with her long after childhood, as part of the series The Book That Changed My Life, now available on BBC iPlayer.
"Reading has been very much a part of my education," Camilla explained. "I think that's where my love of reading came from," she said, describing how books transported her into different worlds.
"I don't think childhood would have been the same if books weren't part of it." Among the classics that filled her early years were Treasure Island and Peter Pan. Yet one particular novel left a lasting impression for darker reasons.
Recalling Charles Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities, Camilla spoke of being mesmerised by the tricoteuses - the women who knitted while watching executions during the French Revolution. The Queen noted that these figures, who sat calmly knitting as the guillotine fell, represented a chilling intersection of history and literature that she could never forget.
She emphasized that while some books provided comfort, others challenged her understanding of human nature and historical brutality. Featuring accounts from people who discovered reading amid personal struggles, the film highlights how books offer an escape, build confidence, and open doors to new possibilities.
The series aims to promote literacy and the joy of reading across the United Kingdom. Camilla has long been a champion of literacy, frequently visiting schools and libraries to encourage young readers.
Her involvement in this project underscores her commitment to making literature accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances. The Royal Family's digital platforms have increasingly focused on personal storytelling to connect with the public.
By sharing these intimate memories, the Queen hopes to inspire a new generation to pick up a book and explore the vast landscapes of human imagination. As the Queen continues her royal duties, her advocacy for reading remains a cornerstone of her public work.
She believes that the ability to read is not just a skill, but a gateway to empathy and understanding in an increasingly complex world. The documentary serves as a reminder that even those in the highest positions of power find solace and wisdom in the pages of classic literature.
It is a testament to the enduring power of the written word to shape lives and perspectives. Ultimately, Queen Camilla's reflections offer a rare glimpse into the formative years of a royal, proving that the simple act of a parent reading to a child can leave an indelible mark that lasts a lifetime.