Book excerpt: These new, fully revised official souvenir guides, published in partnership with the Royal Collection to mark the Diamond Jubilee, include titles on the magnificent palaces and residences, on the finest working stables in existence, on the largest dolls house in the world and on the enthralling history of the royal line of succession. Written by specialist authors including the curators of the Royal Collection, beautifully illustrated and containing details of the works of art, the architecture, stories of occupants, photographs and plans, each book gives a fascinating insight into these famous sites, their history and contents. Buckingham Palace is one of the most readily recognised buildings in the world and one of the few remaining working royal palaces. This official guide to Buckingham Palace provides an illustrated account of the history of the royal palace that serves as Her Majesty The Queen's office and London residence, as well as the administrative headquarters of the Royal Household. It contains an introduction to the Palace today; a history of the building and architecture of the Palace; fascinating stories about the Palace's occupants, from George III to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II; a visitor's map of the State Rooms and an illustrated tour of the State Rooms and their contents. AUTHOR: Jonathan Marsden is the Director of the Royal Collection. SELLING POINTS: *The official guidebook to Buckingham Palace *Illustrated with over 110 colour images including beautiful photographs of the State Rooms, plus historic documents and drawings and many works of art *Features highlights from the Picture Gallery's world-class collection of paintings 109 colour & 11 b/w illustrations