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A review by katharina90
Spare by Prince Harry
emotional
informative
reflective
medium-paced
2.5
Endless minutiae of military training exercises aside, this was an ok read. I almost said enjoyable but I wouldn't go that far.
The memoir is at its strongest whenever Harry provides glimpses into his emotional/mental state and his attempts at growth and healing.
Although he doesn't dive deep, you get a good sense of the family dysfunction and Harry's toxic relationship with his father and brother. Even at surface level a lot of it is heartbreaking and I often found it pretty triggering of my own trauma.
As one would expect, there's very little criticism of British colonialism and racism and the monarchy's role in all of it. In fact, Harry decidedly refuses to take a stand and instead goes on and on about his love for Africa in a very white savior-y manner. There's also no critical analysis of the wars he willingly participated in, and no real acknowledgement of the huge amounts of privilege Harry has access to.
Yes, I get it. He's heavily indoctrinated and has a lot to unpack.
But also, the train is moving and Harry is late to the station.
The memoir is at its strongest whenever Harry provides glimpses into his emotional/mental state and his attempts at growth and healing.
Although he doesn't dive deep, you get a good sense of the family dysfunction and Harry's toxic relationship with his father and brother. Even at surface level a lot of it is heartbreaking and I often found it pretty triggering of my own trauma.
As one would expect, there's very little criticism of British colonialism and racism and the monarchy's role in all of it. In fact, Harry decidedly refuses to take a stand and instead goes on and on about his love for Africa in a very white savior-y manner. There's also no critical analysis of the wars he willingly participated in, and no real acknowledgement of the huge amounts of privilege Harry has access to.
Yes, I get it. He's heavily indoctrinated and has a lot to unpack.
But also, the train is moving and Harry is late to the station.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Gaslighting, Mental illness, Racism, Animal death, Stalking, Suicidal thoughts, Sexism, Bullying, Miscarriage, Toxic relationship, War, Death of parent, and Colonisation
Minor: Ableism and Cultural appropriation