World War I

(From King Albert's Book, page 76)

Another interesting title popped up today while making cards for the books in the Bullis collection. This book is entitled: "The Book of King Albert". It was presented to King Albert of Belgium on Christmas of 1914. His country had just been taken over by Germany under Kaiser Wilhelm. This was the beginning of World War I.

This book is not a narrative, nor is it a history of Belgium or King Albert. It is a collection of songs, poems, and general thoughts of sympathy toward the young monarch. There are songs by Claude Debussy, a letter from Claude Monet, a letter from Winston Churchill, and a poem from Rudyard Kipling. There are many other notable figures such as former President William Taft, the Aga Khan, and American novelist Edith Wharton. Besides the songs, poems and letters there are also the occasional sketch, cartoon and painting. This seemingly strange collection all has one thing in common, the heartfelt wish that the Belgian people and especially the young royal family know that the world has them in their prayers.

This book really stood out to me today. Not only are world leaders and national figures trying to help a young monarch through such troubling times, but the depth of feeling in some of these letters is truly touching.

My own heritage is Belgian. My father's grandparents came over from Belgium in the early twentieth century. I'm sure that if they saw this particular book in print they too would have liked to send word to their former king and countrymen.

This is really an interesting work, and the next time you stop into the Bullis room, take a look at it. It is in the World History area, section N, row 1.

Until next time, happy reading!

A Bullis Volunteer