Prince Philip’s Century 1921-2021: The Extraordinary Life of the Duke of Edinburgh

Reviewed By  Janet Mawdesley       June 23, 2021

 

Author  Robert Jobson

Distributor:      New South Books
ISBN:                 9781913543099
Publisher:         Ad Lib Publishers
Release Date:   May 2021  

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Prince Phillip was a man who, despite great odds carved out a stellar career as the Consort to his wife Queen Elizabeth, earning the right to in his ’retirement’ years, to withdraw from the spotlight of Royal life, to step back a little, to enjoy life in a far more simplistic manner, all the while continuing to support his wife as he had done for the almost 70 years of their close and long married life.

Robert Jobson has in his biographical look at Prince Philip, the man who did so much, gained notoriety for his public gaffs, his quick temper and immense public work, shown a very human face to a change maker and in doing so presented a delightful journey into the life of a much loved husband, father, grandfather and family mediator.

Entertaining and surprisingly most enjoyable, the life of Duke of Edinburgh as told by Jobson becomes a very real experience as the years turn back to portray with respect, a man who did much with an unassuming manner, to give back to the wider community. His outstanding and almost legendary work establishing and overseeing the Duke of Edinburgh Awards is a legacy to be proud of and one that has changed and will continue to change so many young lives for the better.

His fast paced schedule in his own right was phenomenal and although not always diplomatic in his approach to issues, was a man people could depend upon. That he was determined was understood, but never more so was the proof of this determination made public, than with his very careful planning of his funeral some years before the event.

Famous for his military precision in his undertakings, he planned his final farewell in as informal and closely personal manner as is possible for man of his public standing and the modern times of COVID helped his final wishes be carried out according to his plan.

Prince Phillip’s Century 1921 -2021 is a biography well worth taking the time to read, even if slowly, as it contains so much detail, much of it hidden in the annuals of history, about the long, productive and truly fascinating life and the times, which changed immensely, in the 100 years of the indomitable Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Phillip.