The Queen recently made a special appearance in a comic strip, where she was depicted helping Dennis the Menace at a library. This unique portrayal took place at the National Library of Scotland in central Edinburgh. The comic strip featured the Queen intervening to assist Dennis after his mother scolded him for using headphones. During the presentation, Camilla emphasized the importance of audiobooks and comics in promoting reading, stating that they are equally valuable as traditional books.
In the comic strip, Queen Camilla encourages Dennis and his dog Gnasher to embrace the National Year of Reading by emphasizing that comics and audiobooks are valid reading materials. Camilla, reminiscing about her childhood and her love for The Beano, engaged with students from Granton Primary School, expressing her fondness for the long-standing comic series.
Mike Stirling, a key figure at The Beano, highlighted the significance of the Queen’s endorsement, acknowledging her support for the idea that comics and audiobooks contribute to reading. The Queen, a longstanding advocate for literacy, launched the Nation Year of Reading campaign in Scotland with the aim of promoting reading habits, even if it’s just for a few minutes each day.
During a round table discussion, the Queen raised concerns about the closure of libraries in Scotland, emphasizing the importance of fostering a reading culture, especially amidst modern distractions. Camilla also tried her hand at drawing Dennis the Menace and Gnasher alongside students from Clovenstone Primary School, earning praise for her artistic skills.
The event concluded with Camilla meeting ambassadors and supporters of the literacy trust, including renowned authors Sir Ian Rankin, Val McDermid, and Jackie Kay. This initiative aligns with the Queen’s efforts to encourage reading among children and adults, particularly in communities facing literacy challenges. The National Library of Scotland, which marked its centenary last year, received recognition for its enduring commitment to promoting literacy and reading culture.