The confidant of kings

A new book sheds light on life for King Rama VIII and HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej in Europe and the two brothers' fondness for their Swiss tutor

The English version of the book King Bhumibol And The Thai Royal Family In Lausanne is available for 999 baht

He was the sole tutor of two Thai monarchs — King Ananda Mahidol, Rama VIII, and HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej. In Switzerland in 1936, Cleon Seraidaris, a lawyer, started guiding the young King Rama VIII and Prince Bhumibol towards their educational goals. Up until his death in 1997, his close ties and devotion to HM the King and the royal family of Thailand remained strong.

“My father said his career was like a dream because the two kings were perfect about everything. The kings had to be perfect in every way to rule the country. This could be seen from their behaviour and understanding of their duties,” said Lysandre C. Seraidaris, the youngest son of Cleon.

“They behaved like kings. They were good students. They were dream students to my father. They were enthusiastic to learn.” The honorary trade adviser to Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce was talking about both kings during last week’s visit to Thailand to launch his book, King Bhumibol And The Thai Royal Family In Lausanne, which has been translated from French to both English and Thai.

Using a narrative technique that traces the chronology of events in his father’s life, Seraidaris interweaves the story of his father’s teaching days and his esteemed work as the tutor of two kings. His father’s rare photos, personal letters and documents also complement the text and give the book a sense of historical weight. Simple yet beautiful writing makes it easy for readers to
learn more about Thai history, incorporated well in a foreigner’s biography. The book reflects the lives of the two monarchs and the royal family after the 1932 revolution and during and after World War II.   Read More :  link:http://www.bangkokpost.com/lifestyle/book/403806/the-confidant-of-kings.