Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, to release children’s book next month

Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, can add a new title to her résumé: children’s book author.

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According to The Associated Press, Random House Children’s Books will release “The Bench,” written by the former Meghan Markle and illustrated by Christian Robinson, on June 8.

In a news release, Random House said the book is “about the special bond between father and son – as seen through a mother’s eyes.” The story began as a poem that Meghan wrote for her husband, Britain’s Prince Harry, on Father’s Day 2019, shortly after they welcomed son Archie, the duchess said in a statement.

“That poem became this story,” said Meghan, who is expecting her second child, a baby girl, this year. “Christian layered in beautiful and ethereal watercolor illustrations that capture the warmth, joy and comfort of the relationship between fathers and sons from all walks of life; this representation was particularly important to me, and Christian and I worked closely to depict this special bond through an inclusive lens. My hope is that ‘The Bench’ resonates with every family, no matter the makeup, as much as it does with mine.”

The former “Suits” actress also will narrate the audiobook version of “The Bench,” the release said.

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The news comes two months after Meghan, 39, and Harry, 36, opened up about the difficulties of royal life in a televised interview with Oprah Winfrey. In the two-hour special, the pair discussed their decision to step back as senior members of the royal family and move to California with Archie last year. They also spoke about racism, feeling “trapped,” the British tabloids and the mental health challenges – including suicidal thoughts – that Meghan faced as a result.

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Following the interview, Buckingham Palace officials released a statement on Queen Elizabeth II’s behalf, saying the royal family was “saddened” by the revelations.

“The issues raised, particularly that of race, are concerning,” the statement read. “While some recollections may vary, they are taken very seriously and will be addressed by the family privately.”

The statement added: “Harry, Meghan and Archie will always be much loved family members.”

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– The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Cox Media Group