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Ratings: ★★★★☆( (3.9/5)
Genre: Biography, Royalty, Photography, Travel, History, Collectible

Book Review:
Charles and Diana Visit Canada is a vibrant and nostalgic photographic record of a royal tour that captivated a nation. Published in the heyday of ''Diana-mania,'' this book captures the electric atmosphere surrounding the Prince and Princess of Wales during their 17-day visit to Canada in the summer of 1983. For anyone with an interest in the royal family or a fondness for 1980s nostalgia, it's a fascinating time capsule.

The book's primary draw is, without question, its photographs. David Levenson, an experienced royal photographer, provides a comprehensive visual account of the tour. We see Charles and Diana arriving in Halifax, attending official engagements in Ottawa, and enjoying more relaxed moments in the Maritime Provinces. The images capture Diana's legendary style and her effortless ability to connect with crowds. The photographs of the huge, excited crowds that turned out to see her are a testament to her global superstar status.

Trevor Hall's accompanying text provides a clear and engaging narrative of the tour, explaining the formal duties, the significance of the visit, and the public's reaction. He doesn't shy away from the fact that Diana was the main attraction, noting that Prince Charles himself acknowledged this in his speeches. The text captures the sheer goodwill and enthusiasm that characterized the tour.

As a book, it's a product of its time. It's a celebratory keepsake, not a critical analysis. The focus is entirely on the positive, capturing the glamour and excitement of the event. For modern readers, it offers a poignant glimpse into a moment before the fairy tale began to unravel.

For royal collectors, fans of Princess Diana, or anyone interested in the history of royal tours, this book is a charming and collectible item. It's a beautiful reminder of a time when a royal visit could feel like a national celebration and when Diana's smile could win hundreds of thousands of hearts.