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This book discussion concerns a recent publication that is non fiction. The book is The King's Speech by Mark Logue and Peter Conradi, and it is the basis for the script which became an Oscar hit, netting awards for script, lead actor, and director. What the movie could not show due to the limitations of film, the book is able to clearly delineate the relationship between Lionel Logue as speech therapist and client, George VI. The movie begins in the late twenties after Logue, an Australian has emigrated to England, and established a practice. At that point the duties of being royal and having a stammer concern the Duchess of York, who contacts Logue about treatment. The book explores the beginnings of both of these men, from 1880 when Lionel is born in Australia, his training as an elocutionist, to assisting veterans after World War I who have been injured during trench warfare. The King likewise has his beginnings being either abused and definitely neglected by the nannies who are in charge of him and his siblings. This results in the stammer as well as other physical ailments that challenge him throughout his life. It is also noteworthy that neither of Bertie's parents as he was called prior to becoming a King were warm or engaging parents. He had a distant relationship with his father, who couldn't understand him, but demanded much. The pressure dramatically increases on Bertie when his brother, Edward VIII abdicates the throne to marry Wallis Simpson. Because the relationship with Logue is so supporting, that George VI is able to surmount his difficulties, knowing that Lionel would be a support for him throughout the World War II, and its aftermath. When Lionel's wife, Myrtle dies suddenly it is the Queen Mother, Elizabeth, who consoles him. This is a well documented book, based on the diaries of Lionel Logue. It is well written, and gives the reader a glimpse into the lives of people rarely seen. This is also a useful book for those in the helping professions, to understand that their particular brand of therapy, has other ramifications. That the service Lionel Logue did for George VI was speech therapy, but also helped to bridge a developmental milestone missing in this person's life, how to develop friendship, and its wonderful connections. When Lionel Logue assisted this famous client, speech therapy was in its infancy. To Logue's credit he founded the first association of British speech therapists, with George VI listed on the board. Many of the techniques employed by Lionel Logue have been adopted into the profession. This was an incredible adventure, which gives the reader some insight into the personal trials that having a major disorder can wreak on one's self esteem, and ability to perform. This is a highly recommended book.