The Story of Anna and the King: A Book - Softcover

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 surprise 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 international cast and crew representing more than twenty countries works with a myriad of stunningly ornate costumes, thousands of extras, and a menagerie of specially trained animals, 'The Story of Anna and the King' invites you to enter King Mongkut's world.

Cecilia Holland is an acclaimed historical novelist.