Sarah Ferguson’s children’s book, “Flora And Fern: Kindness Along The Way,” has been withdrawn from sale just days before its scheduled publication on October 9. The title had initially appeared on platforms like Amazon, but after confirmation from NielsenIQ Book Data, it has been officially marked as “withdrawn from sale” upon the request of the publisher, New Frontier Publishing. Efforts to obtain a comment from the publisher have thus far gone unanswered.
This decision follows earlier indications that the book’s release date had shifted, with Waterstones bookstores expressing uncertainty about a new publication timeline. Neill Denny from the book trade news website Book Brunch elaborated on the situation, suggesting that the decision is financially sound and likely influenced by the ongoing controversies surrounding Ferguson herself. He noted, “It’s not the right time to release a book by Sarah Ferguson,” emphasizing the book’s nature as one that wouldn’t suffer from delayed publication.
Ferguson, who is no longer using her title of Duchess of York, has seen her reputation affected significantly due to her ties with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Earlier this year, an email from her to Epstein, written in 2011, was made public, wherein she apologized for her previous distancing from him post his 2008 conviction. The email was described by a close source as being drafted “in panic” without legal advice, as she feared potential litigation from Epstein.
The fallout from these revelations has led to her losing various roles with charities and media outlets, creating further distance from her previous social circle, as noted by Liz Brewer, a socialite and party planner, who remarked on Ferguson’s current uninvited status at high-profile gatherings. Despite the controversies, Ferguson is reportedly exploring avenues to restore her financial situation, including a potential interview with Oprah Winfrey, which may command significant earnings, alongside plans for a memoir that delves into her experiences within royal life.
This turn of events reflects a broader narrative within the royal family, particularly concerning reputations marred by scandals linked to high-profile figures. Yet, despite the challenges surrounding her, there remains a glimmer of hope that Ferguson could find a path forward in reclaiming her narrative and professional pursuits. The situation draws attention to the complexities royal figures face in an evolving public landscape, where accountability and public perception remain intertwined.