Meghan Markle’s foray into children’s literature has sparked quite the backlash among her peers in the writing community.
The Duchess of Sussex’s book, “The Bench,” has been labeled a “flop” by reviewers and fellow authors alike, who question the appropriateness of celebrities dabbling in writing as a side gig.
Released in 2021, “The Bench” made headlines but has struggled to make an impact on bookstore shelves.
According to figures reported by The Guardian, a mere 8,000 copies have been sold in the UK, reflecting a disappointing performance for a book that many expected to be a bestseller based on Markle’s fame alone.
Joshua Seigal, an author and poet, openly criticized Markle for seemingly underestimating the challenge of writing for children.
He argued that her celebrity status should not exempt her from recognizing the “skill, practice, and discipline” required to excel in this literary field.
Seigal expressed frustration that established authors are often overlooked in favor of famous personalities seeking additional avenues for income and exposure.
Markle reportedly secured a hefty advance of £500,000 for “The Bench,” despite the book being only 40 pages long.
This staggering amount raises eyebrows among authors who toil for years to create their works, often facing countless rejections along the way.
Author James A. Lyons chimed in, recounting his own struggles as a non-celebrity writer.
After sending out 180 queries for his manuscripts over four years, he emphasized that ordinary authors do not enjoy the same advantages that come with fame, making their journeys significantly more arduous.
Katherine Rundell, another author, voiced her exasperation with celebrities who contribute to children’s literature without fully engaging in the writing process.
She pointed out that it would be absurd for someone to attach their name to a musical composition they didn’t create or a painting they didn’t paint.
Rundell argued that such practices dilute the significance of children’s literature and mislead parents and educators seeking quality stories for young readers.
Despite the criticism, there are indications that Markle may have genuinely authored “The Bench.”
The book reflects her musings on the bond between a father and son, which parallels her own family’s journey following the birth of her son, Archie.
The illustrations, provided by Christian Robinson, received praise for their artistic merit, contrasting sharply with the book’s lukewarm reception.
Critics, including royal biographer Alexander Larman, have suggested that if a ghostwriter had been involved, they would have likely produced a more captivating story.
Other contributors to the children’s book arena, such as Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards and Simon Cowell, have also been criticized for their ventures into this genre, which often lack the flair and creativity that genuine children’s literature embodies.
Their attempts have been described as less than stellar, contributing to a narrative of celebrity-authored books that frequently disappoint.
The larger conversation surrounding Markle’s book highlights an ongoing tension in the literary community—a frustration that arises when fame trumps merit.
Countless authors dedicate their lives to mastering their craft, often feeling overshadowed by those who can swiftly obtain book deals based purely on their public personas.
In light of these reactions, one has to wonder: should celebrities think twice before stepping into the world of writing?
It’s clear that talent is often painstakingly honed, and overlooking this fact may not just hurt the authors involved but also the audience seeking meaningful stories for their children.
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