Books with the Boy: The Queen of King Street – A Q&A with Tom McLaughlin

Hello everybody and today I am sharing some questions that I asked to Tom McLaughlin who wrote The Queen of King Street and his answers. I really liked this book and if you haven’t read it yet then I think you should do. Thank you to Barrington Stoke who sent me a review copy of this book.

1. What was your favourite bit to write? 

Bertie is my favourite character, he’s silly, but kind hearted –  my favourite bit is when he tried to capture a pigeon for tea!

2. Where did you get the idea for this story?

I had a friend who was very posh and well-to-do, and he told me about how they used to have a huge mansion years back but then a distant uncle gambled away the family fortune on a game of cards. It got me interested in what makes a family happy, is it the money or having each other?

3. Is King Street based on somewhere real?

No, not really, just a normal boring street anywhere in the country. But if you’re used to living in castles, then your average street probably feels like a different planet!

4. Why did you choose to write about the royal family?  

I’ve always been fascinated by the royals and what they’re really like. It must be so strange to be brought up in that way – to most people it would be a dream, but when you think about it, actually it must feel quite lonely. You can’t really have a normal life. 

5. Which character was your favourite? Mine is Bertie.

Definitely, me too! 

6. Would you prefer to live in King Street or the Palace and why?

King Street, although maybe I could have the palaces to go at the weekend, you know, just for a change. 

7. If you could live as one of the characters in the book which would you choose?

George, the Queen’s husband. I like the fact that he’s no nonsense. He’s the only one who really throws himself into the role!

Thank you Tom for answering my questions. I hope everyone enjoyed them and let me know if you decide to read this book.

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