Sarah Ferguson’s Children’s Book Pulled Amid Controversies

Sarah Ferguson’s new children’s book, Flora And Fern: Kindness Along The Way, has been withdrawn from sale just weeks before its scheduled release date of October 9, 2023. The decision, made at the request of the publisher, New Frontier Publishing, has left many in the literary world questioning the timing and implications of the move.

Details of the Withdrawal

While Amazon had initially listed the book as available starting from November 20, it has since been marked as “withdrawn from sale,” according to NielsenIQ Book Data. Despite inquiries, New Frontier Publishing has not provided further comment on the situation, raising eyebrows within the publishing community.

Earlier in September, Waterstones bookstores indicated to BBC News that the publication date had been “moved,” yet no new release date has been announced. Neill Denny, a representative from the book trade news site Book Brunch, commented, “It makes total sense commercially. You have to imagine it’s to do with the current controversies.” He added that holding back the book does not pose a significant financial risk for the publisher.

Impact of Recent Controversies

The decision to withdraw the book comes on the heels of a scandal involving Sarah Ferguson and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Earlier this year, an email from Ferguson to Epstein, written in 2011, became public. In it, she expressed regret for distancing herself from him following his 2008 conviction for procuring a minor for sex. A source close to her stated that the email was written “in panic” and without legal counsel, emphasizing her fear of potential libel claims.

Ferguson’s connection to Epstein has significantly affected her public image and financial standing. Following the controversy, she lost her title as the Duchess of York and has faced challenges in securing invitations to high-society events. Socialite and party planner, Liz Brewer, noted that Ferguson is currently unwelcome at such gatherings, stating, “People, unfortunately, are not brave enough to make their own minds up.”

In addition, Ferguson has experienced a decline in support from various charities and media platforms. Reports suggest that she is exploring options to restore her financial stability, including a possible interview with Oprah Winfrey. Such an interview, which could yield up to $1 million, would mark her third appearance on Winfrey’s platform, following notable discussions in 1996 and 2010.

Another avenue being considered is a memoir detailing her experiences within royal life, which could also attract significant financial interest. As she navigates these turbulent waters, the future of both her personal and professional life remains uncertain.