Duchess Down Under

Aset Penerbit

21 November 2024

In the news Public school life

The Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson, brought books and belly laughs to a lucky Perth primary school as part of her recent promotional book tour.

The Duchess reads one of her best-sellers to the students.

Dozens of Waikiki Primary School students lined the quadrangle to welcome the Duchess to the school, bearing gifts, posters, hats and books for her to sign. 

Colloquially known as Fergie, the royal has written more than 80 books, including several aimed at children, covering topics such as kindness, self-compassion and believing in yourself. 

The visit to Australia was in celebration of her recently inking a 22-book deal with Rockingham-based publisher Serenity Press. 

Speaking to The West Australian newspaper, the Duchess said every child had the “right to an education”. 

“Every single child has the right to dare to dream, the right to an education, the right to believe in themselves,” she said. 

The students were captivated by the Duchess’ upbeat and playful manner, she even sat on the floor to sign one of their shoes. 

Some of the students were welcomed into the school library for an exclusive reading of Budgie the Little Helicopter, a book she was inspired to write after becoming a pilot. 

“Back when I married my handsome prince, he flew a Lynx helicopter, so I thought I better learn to fly one too,” she said.