The Queen's Golden Jubilee in 2002 saw an unprecedented outpouring of affection for the royal family, with hugely successful celebrations to commemorate this anniversary of Elizabeth II's accession to the throne. Doubts about the public's enthusiasm for the monarchy were soon crushed by the crowds who greeted her wherever she went. In 2006, her eightieth birthday will also be celebrated across the nation, and once again the Queen's personal popularity will be confirmed. Written by former BBC Royal Correspondent Jennie Bond, this book looks back over the Queen's incredible five-decade-plus reign, with a new chapter detailing the momentous events of her sixth decade on the throne, including the marriage of her son and heir Charles to divorcee Camilla. The book presents a balanced and absorbing account of the Queen's life and of her role as the head of state in a country and a world that have changed almost beyond recognition in the years since she inherited the throne. With Jennie Bond's authoritative text and over 170 lavish - and sometimes rarely seen - photographs, this is a fascinating portrait of a great reign.

Jennie Bond joined the BBC in 1977, and became Royal Correspondent in 1989, a job she combined that with presenting the Six O'Clock News and other bulletins. She also presented the Today programme on Radio 4 for three years. She gives talks about her work worldwide. She lives in London and Devon.