The Bench: Meghan Markle's Heartfelt Book Celebrating Fatherhood

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has released her highly anticipated picture book, The Bench, which delves into the profound bond between fathers and their sons. This book taps into her expertise as a former actress and her newfound role as a royal figure living in exile, blending personal and royal themes.

A Sweet Little Tale

The Bench is a delightful and touching story first conceived as a poem that Meghan wrote for her husband, Prince Harry, on Father's Day soon after the birth of their son, Archie. The book has now grown to include their second child, a daughter named Lilibet Diana, further expanding the narrative's familial scope.

The Bench - A Symbolic Seat

In The Bench, the eponymous furniture plays a significant role, serving multiple functions from a seat to a table and even a prop for storytelling. Meghan envisions the bench as a sanctuary for fathers to cradle their baby boys, providing comfort and support in various ways, such as putting bandages on their toddlers' scraped knees or offering encouragement.

Artistic Collaboration

The illustrations in The Bench are masterfully crafted by the award-winning artist Christian Robinson, who has been honored with both Caldecott and Coretta Scott King awards. His gentle watercolor illustrations bring the story to life, enhancing the touching messages of the book.

Personal and Universal Themes

The book offers several valuable lessons and insights:

Cherished Love Between Father and Son: The Bench emphasizes the enduring love and connection between fathers and their sons, encouraging readers to appreciate and nurture these bonds. Men as Nurturers: The book challenges traditional gender roles, affirming that men, too, are capable of nurturing their children, making it a powerful statement for equality. Inclusion of Diversity: By featuring a diverse cast of characters in the narrative and illustrations, the book promotes inclusivity and the importance of representing all communities in children's literature. Overcoming Adversity: The story serves as a testament to Meghan's resilience, highlighting her continued success despite the challenges posed by critics who seek to undermine her and her family.

Critical Reception

Despite the book's simplicity, The Bench has garnered positive reviews for its emotional depth and artistic quality. Critics have praised its ability to convey complex emotions in a straightforward yet impactful manner. Some have also noted the commercial success of the book, citing its enchanting illustrations and heartfelt story, making it a worthwhile investment for those appreciating quality children's literature.

Behind the Scenes

Much like the creation of the book itself, the story behind The Bench is as touching as the story within. Meghan wrote the poem on Father's Day for her husband Prince Harry, highlighting the personal connection while also intertwining her royal life as the Duchess of Sussex.

Conclusion

In a world where traditional narratives surrounding fatherhood are often complex and multifaceted, The Bench offers a beautiful and accessible way to explore these relationships. By blending personal experience with universal themes, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of love and connection.