Meet the Woman Behind the Crown
What is it really like to grow up as a future queen?
Amalia, written by Dutch comedian, writer and performer Claudia de Breij, gives readers an informal and personal introduction to Princess Catharina Amalia, Princess of Orange and heir to the Dutch throne.
The book is based on conversations between De Breij and Amalia. Rather than focusing only on royal duties, it explores her life as a young woman: school, friends, family, horse riding and her experiences as a princess.
A Young Woman Preparing for a Very Different Future
Amalia became heir to the Dutch throne when her father, Willem-Alexander, became king in 2013. When she turned 18, Claudia de Breij wrote the original book to give the Dutch public a better idea of who she was.
One of the interesting aspects of the book is that Amalia herself questions the idea of having a book written about her. She points out that she has not yet achieved anything comparable to major historical figures. At the same time, she understands that her future role makes her life unusual.
The conversations touch on subjects such as her education, hobbies, friendships and her hopes and concerns about becoming queen.
Why Expats Will Enjoy This Book
For expats learning Dutch, Amalia offers more than language practice. It is also an accessible introduction to Dutch society, the monarchy and contemporary Dutch culture.
The Dutch royal family is a visible part of life in the Netherlands, particularly around events such as King’s Day, Prinsjesdag and royal celebrations. Reading about Amalia can therefore provide useful cultural context while helping learners understand how the Dutch monarchy fits into modern Dutch society.
Part of the Leeslicht Series
The Leeslicht edition was rewritten in easy Dutch by Jet Doedel, making the book accessible to readers who find standard Dutch books difficult. It is 96 pages long and written at A2–B1 level.
Leeslicht is a series of books for adults who want to read in Dutch but find regular books too difficult. The series includes simplified editions of well-known books and stories, allowing Dutch learners to enjoy adult literature and non-fiction without having to struggle with advanced language.
Learn Dutch Through the Life of a Future Queen
Amalia is a short, accessible and culturally interesting read for expats who want to improve their Dutch while learning more about the Netherlands.
At A2–B1 level, it is particularly suitable for learners who are ready to move beyond textbooks and start reading about real people, Dutch institutions and contemporary life.
Read about the future Queen — and discover a little more about the Netherlands along the way.
