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Meghan Markle Just Hit a Major Milestone with Her Children's Book

Only ten days after Meghan Markle and Prince Harry welcomed baby Lilibet into the world, the pair now have another big reason to celebrate.

In an announcement on their Archewell website, the couple revealed that Markle's book, The Bench, has become a #1 New York Times Bestseller.

The literary milestone was shared in a statement that said, “Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex’s debut children’s book, The Bench, is #1 on The New York Times Bestseller list for children’s picture books after being released just last week. Congratulations to everyone involved in the project.”

The foundation described the inspiration behind the book, writing, “The Bench started as a Father’s Day poem for her husband, Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, and expanded into a children’s book with imagery that captures moments of love and shared experiences between a diverse group of fathers and sons. Alongside the Duchess’s words are watercolor illustrations by Christian Robinson that bring the gentleness and joy to life.”

In an official quote from the duchess herself, she said: “While this poem began as a love letter to my husband and son, I’m encouraged to see that its universal themes of love, representation and inclusivity are resonating with communities everywhere. In many ways, pursuing a more compassionate and equitable world begins with these core values. Equally, to depict another side of masculinity — one grounded in connection, emotion, and softness — is to model a world that so many would like to see for their sons and daughters alike. Thank you for supporting me in this special project.”

While Markle was obviously inspired by her husband during the writing process, we also were quick to spot the real-life bench that may have been the inspiration for the artwork in the children's book.

The Bench got its worldwide release on June 8 and can be picked up at booksellers today.

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calfee

Associate Editor, News and Entertainment

Joel is the former Associate Editor for News & Entertainment and has been reporting on all things pop culture for over 5 years. Before working at PureWow, he served as a Features Editor at ROCKET Magazine. When he's not dissecting the latest trends in entertainment (or guiding you on what to watch), he covers all the hottest red carpet looks and fashion movements. When he steps away from the keyboard, you can likely find him at an NYC concert, thrift store or LGBTQ+ bookstore happily perusing the shelves.