Pete’s Pick
June, 2023
Spare
Prince Harry
Random House, January 10, 2023
Introduction
This is Prince Harry’s own account of his life from birth through his marriage to Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex.
Author
Prince Harry is the second son of King Charles of Great Britain and the brother of Prince William, the Prince of Wales and the next in line to the monarchy of Great Britain.
Story
This is Prince Harry’s own story of his life to date. It is a rigorous look at his growing up years as the second son of Prince Charles and Princess Diana. He is quite forthcoming in what it was like in the years before his mother died, and he is excruciating in the effect his mother’s death had on his personal development from the time of her death until now. Her death significantly impacted his own development, and he is very upfront on how he suffers greatly from anxiety and depression as a result of her death. He talks freely about his time in the British Army and that time seems to have helped him tremendously in his maturing. He is also very forthcoming in his love of Africa, particularly of Botswana. The story becomes very difficult after Prince Harry meets and falls in love with Meghan Markle. The description of the British press and the paparazzi are enough to cause one to think there ought to be a law governing such relationships.
The story is really quite an open look at Prince Harry’s life and he seems willing to share some of the most intimate details in an effort to have readers understand how difficult it was and is to grow up in that world and continue to try to live in it.
Evaluation
I have followed Prince William and Prince Harry since their births to Prince Charles and Princess Diana. I was horrified when Princess Diana was killed in the Paris car accident. It was mildly upsetting to hear and watch the press coverage of Prince Harry’s teenage years. After reading this book, I realize how one-sided and jilted that perspective was. I have been a fan of Prince Harry’s since he began his relationship with Meghan Markle and I am one who feels they have been given a raw deal by their family, the press, and the paparazzi. I believe this book presents a needed fresh look at Prince Harry’s life and an appreciation for the people and causes he holds dear.