This work investigates the evolution of the British monarchy and the cultural shifts of the United Kingdom over the span of fifty years. John Wells, a noted satirist and writer, utilizes his unique vantage point within the British media landscape to analyze the intersection of public perception and royal duty. The text presents a chronological examination of how the institution of the monarchy adapted to the changing social and political climate of the late twentieth century.

Critics often note that the book provides a sharp, observational look at the monarchy through a journalistic lens. Experts frequently highlight the text as a useful resource for understanding the intersection of celebrity culture and traditional institutions in modern Britain.