Councillors across Bedford Borough have been telling us about their favourite books throughout our Year of Reading.
And this week it’s the turn of Councillor Jim Weir who shared his love of The Once and Future King by T.H. White, a book he has been enjoying for half a century.
He said; “I first picked up this book in 1974, and I have read and reread it many times since.
“It is a joyful and enchanting story, sometimes dark, about Wart - eventually to become King Arthur.
“It's about his first interactions with Merlyn, and the early years of Wart's life were fantastical learning experiences under Merlyn's mentorship, which took place in many guises. The young Wart was turned into all manner of animals and insects by Merlyn so that he could experience all aspects of life amongst the different species. It then touches on all the different periods of Arthur’s life.
“The book is split into four stories, most of which we will all be familiar with. ‘The Sword In The Stone’, ‘The Queen of Air and Darkness’, ‘The Ill-Made Knight’, and ‘The Candle In The Wind’. I wonder if this was where Elton John and Bernie Taupin got the title for their song!
“Each story is captivating by the imaginative writing of T.H. White, perfect illustrations are formed in your mind with his descriptive writing, and each story has you wanting more.
“I was 26 when I first read this book, and I’m still re-reading it at 76.”
Councillor Weir shared his choice as part of Bedford Borough Council’s Year of Reading, a Borough-wide initiative taking place throughout 2025. It has featured a wide range of events and initiatives to celebrate and promote reading, including town centre performances, literary trails, and author readings.
He added; “I would recommend it to all as a thoroughly enchanting, exciting, and fantastical group of stories about King Arthur from his childhood to the end of his reign.
“If you want to suspend belief for a few hours (677 pages, so it might take you a bit longer), you could do no better than to read this book.
“And after writing this, I’m going to have to read the book again!”
You can read more about all that’s been happening during Bedford Borough Council’s Year of Reading at www.bedford.gov.uk/yearofreading
And remember - if you want to read a copy of The Once and Future King or any other book recommended by our councillors, you can always see if it's available in one of our libraries.
Visit or call any of our libraries during staffed hours and staff will help you to request titles, remembering to have your library card with you. You can also search the catalogue and request books on the library app or online catalogue using your library card number and PIN. If you’re not sure of your PIN, you can request a reminder. There is a charge for requesting books, but it’s free for children.
Library opening hours, PIN requests, and online catalogue is all accessible on the dedicated page on our website, and the app is called Bedfordshire Libraries in the App Store.