The King Who Went on Strike

"The King Who Went on Strike" by Pearson Choate is a story that begins with a newly crowned, young King facing the heavy weight of his royal tasks, feeling cut off from others, and wanting to be free. Set during his grand Coronation, the story explores what's going on inside the King as he figures out his new role, what his people expect from him, and his special bond with a woman named Judith. The book starts with the King alone at Buckingham Palace on his Coronation day, thinking about how unreal the day felt. Even though everyone celebrated him, he feels tired and conflicted, wishing he could escape what he has to do. The story moves forward as he looks for Judith, someone from his past who makes him happy, showing how he's torn between doing what he's supposed to and wanting to connect with someone. The beginning sets the stage to discuss topics like duty, who you are, and trying to find happiness when you're held back by royal expectations.