What Do Royals Read? Their Favorite Books Might Surprise You!

Over the years, members of the royal family have offered glimpses into their literary tastes, revealing everything from beloved bedtime stories to novels they simply couldn't put down.

And while some prefer historical fiction or timeless classics, others have a soft spot for children's books that bring back treasured family memories.

So, what do the royals actually enjoy reading? Let's take a look at some of their favorite titles.

Queen Camilla's Favorite Novels

A passionate reader and founder of The Queen's Reading Room, Queen Camilla has shared plenty of literary recommendations.

Among her favorites are Elizabeth Jane Howard's The Cazalet Chronicles and Antoine Laurain's The Red Notebook, a charming romance set in Paris.

Princess Kate's Beloved Childhood Classic

Princess Kate has a love for classic literature, with books by Jane Austen and Oscar Wilde spotted in her Kensington Palace collection.

But one of her most treasured reads is The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark by Jill Tomlinson. The princess revealed that she loved the story as a child and now enjoys hearing her own children read it.

Princess Beatrice's Favorite Bedtime Stories

During the pandemic, Princess Beatrice discovered the joy of reading with her stepson, Wolfie.

She revealed that the Oi Frog! series by Kes Gray and Jim Field quickly became a family favorite, bringing laughter, creativity, and a little magic into their home.

Prince George, Charlotte and Louis' Favorite Children's Book

Prince William once revealed that The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson was a huge hit with his children.

When he met the book's creators at Kensington Palace, he enthusiastically told them just how much the beloved story was enjoyed in their household.

King Charles' Love for Historical Stories

King Charles enjoys books that bring history and different cultures to life.

His favorites include William Blacker's Along the Enchanted Way, about life in Transylvania, and Robert Harris' Lustrum, a gripping historical novel set in ancient Rome.

Meghan Markle's Inspirational Reads

Meghan Markle's reading list reflects her interests in self-improvement and fashion.

Among her favorites are Brendan Burchard's The Motivation Manifesto, which she recommended on her former lifestyle blog, and Grace: A Memoir by fashion icon Grace Coddington.

Prince Harry's Favorite Book From His School Days

In his memoir Spare, Prince Harry revealed that John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men was one of his favorite books during his time at Eton College.

The Duke of Sussex particularly appreciated the novel's themes of friendship, loyalty, and companionship.

Queen Elizabeth II's Unexpected Favorite

Queen Elizabeth II reportedly loved detective novels and books about animals, including James Herriot's All Creatures Great and Small.

In fact, the late monarch reportedly told Herriot that his stories were the only books that had ever made her laugh out loud!