Historical picture book author Susan Webb makes her hometown newspaper proud with the publication of her rhyming biographical picture book, Bertie: The Best Stuttering King.
Born in Vermont and currently residing in California, this local author has done more than travel the coasts of her own country; she also has extensive world travel experience, including multiple visits to Bertie’s own UK.
The Vermont Standard published their piece about Susan on 4/12/2022. Reproduction below.
Woodstock native writes children’s book honoring King George VI
Woodstock native Susan McGee Webb has launched a children’s picture book, “Bertie: The Best Stuttering King.” The book highlights the struggles of Queen Elizabeth’s father, King George VI, and how he overcame a severe stutter and physical ailments to become one of the best monarchs of 20th century Europe.
The launch of the book coincides with the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee events in 2022, marking her 70 years on the throne following the passing of her father, affectionately known as “Bertie.”
Ms. Webb’s picture book is for children ages 7-12 and features a rhyming tale paired with colorful illustrations created by renowned illustrator Sergio Drumond, who was recently featured on NBC News with Lester Holt.
Webb spoke of her inspiration for the book: “I saw the movie ‘The King’s Speech’ in 2011 and was instantly captivated by this forgotten monarch. King George died only nine years before I was born, yet I had never heard of him.
“When I researched him, I discovered there were no children’s books about him. So, I decided to write a children’s picture book and do it in rhyme, Dr. Seuss style. Repeating rhymes was a therapy technique used by the king’s own speech therapist, Lionel Logue, to help Bertie with his stutter. I hope this book will be a valuable tool for young stutterers.”
The book highlights the king’s early struggles with knock knees, stuttering, bullying, and a mean nanny who frequently denied him dinner, causing him life-long stomach problems.
Bertie’s brother, King Edward VIII, abdicated the throne in 1936, thrusting Bertie upon it shortly before the start of World War II. His duties demanded that he make speeches and radio addresses to his nation, which was traumatizing for the reluctant monarch due to his stutter.
Bertie rose to the challenge, despite his speech impediment, and became a trusted and beloved ruler. However, the stress of kingship and the war eventually overtook him and he passed away in his sleep in 1952.
“I want to share the story of this humble man and reluctant king with the world and bring him out of the mists of time,” said Webb. “Due to Bertie’s unflagging spirit and loving stewardship, Queen Elizabeth rules today, and has done so, quite successfully, for the past 70 years.”
Webb, who now resides in Southern California, sailed in Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee Flotilla on the Thames in 2012, and is traveling to London in June for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee events. Webb traces her English roots back to John Alden and Myles Standish of Mayflower fame.
“Bertie: The Best Stuttering King” can be found at TheBookPatch.com or on Amazon.
