Anna Leonowens’ tenure as a tutor in the royal court of Siam, now modern-day Thailand, offers a fascinating glimpse into a world that has captivated audiences for decades, particularly through its dramatizations in film. While Leonowens’ own autobiographical narratives provide one perspective, the biographical account by Margaret Landon offers an equally compelling and somewhat more realistic portrayal of the conditions she encountered during her time there.

For those who have been introduced to this historical figure through the cinematic adaptations—Anna and the King of Siam in 1946 and the 1956 musical film The King and I—these movies might present a light-hearted or even whimsical take on Leonowens’ experiences. Landon’s biography, however, grounds the story in reality, shedding light on both the challenges and the triumphs Leonowens faced while educating the children and young wives of King Mongkut.

Beyond the narrative of her teaching endeavors, the biography serves as a rich source of cultural insights, presented in an engaging manner that is accessible to younger readers. This aspect of the biography is particularly valuable, correcting misconceptions that might arise from the film versions and offering a more nuanced understanding of Siamese society during the period.

Significantly, the biography highlights Leonowens' profound impact on her pupil, the crown prince who would later become King Chulalongkorn. Her influence during a time when slavery was still prevalent in Thailand was pivotal in shaping the prince's educational and ethical grounding. This preparation was instrumental in his development into one of the country’s most revered monarchs, known for his progressive reign. Without Leonowens’ guidance, the trajectory of his rule, and perhaps the history of Thailand itself, might have unfolded quite differently.