Spare Book Summary

by Prince Harry, J.R. Moehringer (Ghostwriter)164

TL;DR

Spare by Prince Harry offers an unfiltered glimpse into his life, from the trauma of losing his mother to his military service and the challenges of marrying Meghan Markle, amidst the pressures of royal life and the media.

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What is Spare about

In Spare, Prince Harry shares his deeply personal journey of grief and self-discovery, beginning with the profound impact of his mother, Princess Diana's, death. The memoir candidly explores his struggles with identity, mental health, and the relentless media scrutiny that accompanied his royal status. The narrative unfolds across three pivotal phases of his life: his formative years overshadowed by loss; his service in the British Army, where he found purpose and faced the realities of war; and his transformative relationship with Meghan Markle, which sparked both joy and conflict as they navigated public life and systemic racism together. Prince Harry's storytelling is characterized by raw honesty, as he reflects on the burden of being the 'Spare' to the 'Heir' and the quest for personal happiness beyond royal expectations.

Spare 8 Key Takeaways

The Trauma of Loss

Harry’s life was irrevocably altered by his mother’s death, leading to feelings of isolation, anger, and grief that shaped his youth and adult relationships.

Military Service as a Turning Point

Joining the Army provided Harry with structure and purpose, helping him cope with his trauma, but also exposing him to the harsh realities of war and its aftereffects.

Media and Public Scrutiny

The relentless media attention became a source of pain for Harry and Meghan, contributing to their decision to step back from royal duties in pursuit of a safer life.

Finding Love

Harry's relationship with Meghan transformed him personally, offering a profound connection that contrasted with his previous experiences, yet also brought new challenges.

Mental Health Advocacy

Through his struggles with PTSD and anxiety, Harry emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness and the need for open dialogue around such issues.

The Search for Identity

Harry's journey illustrates his quest to define himself beyond the royal image, seeking authenticity in a life fraught with expectations.

The Legacy of Diana

Princess Diana's legacy looms large in Harry's life, influencing his values and driving his commitment to charitable causes, echoing her humanitarian spirit.

Love Over Grief

Ultimately, the memoir underscores the power of love to heal and provide strength in the face of overwhelming grief and challenges.

Top Spare Quotes

  • "I am not just a prince, I am a human being with my own story and struggles."
  • "Love is the most powerful force in the world, capable of overcoming even the deepest wounds."
  • "The pursuit of happiness is not a privilege, but a right for everyone, regardless of their background."

Who should read Spare?

Spare is ideal for readers interested in royal history, mental health advocacy, and personal growth narratives. It resonates with those seeking inspiration from Harry's journey of resilience against adversity, as well as fans of the royal family looking for an insider's perspective on challenging subjects.

About the Author

Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, is a member of the British royal family and an advocate for mental health, veterans, and environmental causes. With a military background and experience in philanthropy, he has co-founded the Invictus Games and launched the mental health initiative Heads Together. His collaboration with renowned ghostwriter J.R. Moehringer brings depth and authenticity to his story, making Spare a significant literary contribution.

Spare Best Reviews

  • "Spare is a raw and honest portrayal of a life lived under the public's gaze, capturing the complexities of family, love, and personal growth." - The Guardian
  • "A poignant memoir that bravely addresses the elephant in the room – mental health and the burdens of royal life." - The New York Times
  • "Harry's storytelling is both compelling and heartfelt, offering readers an intimate glimpse into a prince's struggle for autonomy and happiness." - BBC News

Spare FAQs

How much did Harry earn from Spare?

Harry reportedly earned an advance of at least $20 million for Spare, with proceeds from sales going to charity.

What criticism has Spare received?

Critics note that Spare can feel conflicted, like a cathartic outpouring from someone learning to express his life experiences and emotions in a public format.

Is Spare worth buying?

Many agree that Spare is worth reading for its historical significance and candid insight into the challenges faced by modern royals and their quest for personal happiness.