James Middleton, brother of the Princess of Wales, will soon release a heartfelt book called "Meet Ella: The Dog Who Saved My Life." Slated for September release, the memoir explores the life and impact of James' cherished black cocker spaniel, who passed away in January 2023.
The 35-year-old revealed the creation of the book through a post on Instagram on March 8. James revealed in the video that he owes his life to his late pet dog named Ella when he was suffering from clinical depression. He said he had been walking with Ella for 15 years and thought telling the untold story in a book was appropriate.
The book details the profound bond between James and Ella, highlighting the dog's significant role in his mental health journey. James has also made it public how his dog helped him through a mental crisis; for instance, he took Ella to therapy sessions, demonstrating the therapeutic nature of pets. Scientific evidence also backs James. According to a study in the Journal of Psychiatric Research, the company of dogs has significant benefits on mental health.
The book provides a window into a notable time in James' life. It narrates his experiences with Ella, including traveling to Scottish mountains, royal weddings, and even meeting his wife-to-be, Alizee. The pair married in 2021. They are now parents to a boy named Inigo, born in 2023. Alizee has accompanied James to various public engagements, including Kate Middleton's annual Christmas carol service.
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James told Tatler that writing the book was a way to honor his family and process his grief after Ella's passing. He emphasized Ella's presence during crucial moments in his life, including meeting Alizee.
James also expressed his desire for his son, Inigo, to know about Ella, who passed away before his birth. He hopes the book will convey how he met Alizee to their son.
James saw Ella as more than simply a pet; she was an integral part of him and gave him a sense of purpose and direction when he felt lost. He believed that writing the book would inspire others to talk about their issues - past or current - with mental health. Writing the book gave him the confidence to speak to people about mental health.
James hoped the book would resonate with those who have their beloved pets or need one. He also hoped it would encourage more open discussions about mental health, the need for connection, and the reciprocal care between humans and animals.
According to The Daily Beast, the arrival of the new manuscript likely stirred mixed reactions among publishing executives. As the brother of the Princess of Wales, James' familial connections alone may have guaranteed interest. However, the independent U.K. publisher, Pegasus, claimed they were genuinely moved by his heartfelt celebration of the bond between humans and animals.
Despite potential merit, skeptics might see this as a commercial decision by Pegasus, influenced by the mixed success of James' previous ventures. For instance, Pippa Middleton's book "Celebrate" was widely criticized and seen as a product of nepotism. This context raises questions about whether "Meet Ella" is driven by genuine storytelling or opportunistic profiteering.
Critics argued that such publications by royal-adjacent individuals reflect a broader trend of nepotism and commercial exploitation of royal status. Historical royal decorum discouraged such profiteering, a discipline that has waned under King Charles' reign. The proliferation of memoirs, podcasts, and other media projects by royal relatives has reignited concerns about the monarchy's image.
While James' advocacy for pet therapy and volunteer work with animal charities is commendable, the appropriateness of royals and their relatives writing books remains contentious. The underlying sentiment is that the royal family should maintain a firm stance against perceived nepotistic endeavors to uphold their dignity and public trust.
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