King Never Smiles

Discover the intriguing life of Thailand's Bhumibol Adulyadej in King Never Smiles by Paul M. Handley. This compelling biography, published in 2017, spans 520 pages and offers a unique perspective on the only king born in the United States. Ascending to the throne in 1946, Bhumibol became the world's longest-serving monarch until his passing in October 2016. Handley's independent narrative delves into the complexities of Bhumibol’s life and his extraordinary seventy-year reign. Explore how a boy raised in the West transformed into a revered figure, regarded by his people as a living Buddha. With a new preface that enriches the original text, King Never Smiles is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersections of monarchy, culture, and religion in East Asia. Immerse yourself in this captivating story that reveals the man behind the crown.