Queen Camilla undertook a heartwarming mission during her recent state visit to the US with King Charles, personally ensuring the safe transport of a bespoke replica of Roo, a beloved character from the Winnie-the-Pooh stories.

The Journey of a Beloved Toy

Roo represents a missing toy that once belonged to Christopher Robin Milne, the son of author A.A. Milne. The original toy disappeared in an English orchard in the 1930s, and this replica, crafted by Merrythought, is being returned to its rightful place ahead of Winnie-the-Pooh’s centenary celebrations this year.

VIP Treatment for Roo

The journey of the replica Roo was treated with remarkable care and attention. Video footage released by the Royal Family shows the toy receiving VIP treatment, including a red carpet welcome at Buckingham Palace.

Roo enjoyed a comfortable seat on the royal pilot’s shoulder during the flight to New York City and even a cozy spot in Queen Camilla’s Lady Dior handbag.

Reunion at the New York Public Library

Upon arrival in New York, Queen Camilla delivered Roo to the New York Public Library, where it was reunited with its companions – Pooh, Tigger, Piglet, Kanga, and Eeyore. These beloved characters have resided at the library’s Treasures collection since 1947, a gift from Christopher Robin to his father’s American publisher.

A Royal Visit and Promotion of Literacy

The replica’s arrival was marked by a lavish ceremonial welcome, complete with a cushion adorned with the Union flag. Queen Camilla’s visit to the library was the first by a British royal since its founding in 1985.

She used the occasion to promote her Reading Room charity and playfully acknowledged her busy schedule, joking about her voice potentially giving out after days of engagements.

Meeting Literary Figures

During a tour of an exhibit with actress Sarah Jessica Parker, Queen Camilla also greeted Dame Anna Wintour, who removed her signature sunglasses for the occasion. Dressed in a navy blue crepe silk dress and coat, and adorned with a brooch belonging to the late Queen, she spoke passionately about the importance of reading.

She fondly recalled characters from her favorite novels, such as Little Women and Charlotte’s Web, emphasizing that ‘books are the best friend you can have – in good times and bad.’

The event at the New York Public Library brought together around 100 guests from the literary, publishing, and cultural worlds, including authors Harlan Coben, Min Jin Lee, and Tina Brown, as well as singer Katherine Jenkins.