What I Know Now: Simple Lessons Learned the Hard Way

by Sarah Ferguson

"I do not merely rise above old wrongs; I deny them their reality. I sever my connections to darker times and circumstances. I take people with a fresh eye and an open heart, as they come to me today. Their old dossiers have expired. Our new story has yet to be written." With the characteristic candor and down-to-earth charm that have won our admiration and our hearts, Sarah Ferguson The Duchess of York shares the hard-won lessons that have helped her work through challenges and lead a simpler, more fulfilling life. Admired as much for her honest assessment of her foibles as for her grace in the glare of the media's spotlight, The Duchess here reveals her most private self. She shares the truths she has discovered from embracing her flaws, striving to make every life decision with integrity, and witnessing the selfless acts of others around her. She takes on challenges both small and daunting -- from putting strangers at ease in a social setting to coping with the death of her beloved best friend; from appreciating the small wonders of the natural world to protecting private time with her girls while honoring her many work commitments. Each lesson springs from a life rich with disappointments and victories, and each lesson is seasoned with a healthy dose of humility and warm wit. Although her personal struggles have been played out on the public stage, The Duchess's thoughtful, simple approach applies to the struggles we all face. Like sharing a cup of tea with your closest confidante, What I Know Now offers advice for the everyday as it illuminates the delightful spirit, undeniable resilience, and trademark grace under fire of a woman who considers every challenge an opportunity to learn and grow.

Genres: Nonfiction, Self Help, Royalty, Biography

192 pages, Hardcover

First published January 9, 2003

About the author

Sarah Ferguson, former Duchess of York, is a British writer, charity patron, public speaker, film producer and television personality. She is the former wife of Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, former Duke of York. Sarah has two daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie of York.

Reviews

[Lori · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sarah Ferguson's book What I Know Now,is a wonderful little gem filled with beautiful stories and wisdom. I was pleased to find it on the "new" shelf at the library and after reading the first vignette, Forgiving the Past, I was hooked. Each story reveals a little more about the Duchess of York, what she has learned from her past mistakes and how she has set a course to change her future. It is not self indulgent in any way, but open, honest and humorous. It takes great courage to put your history out there for people to examine. It's refreshing tolearn about someone who makes no excuses for her behaviors, good and bad, but accepts what simply is and tries to do her best daily. It was such a pleasure to read about her daughters and the priority she places on her family. Each story is one that all of us can relate to because as human beings, we encounter the same dilemas, emotions and consequences for our actions. I smiled more than once, teared up more than once and fully enjoyed this little book about life. Sarah has a graceful,elegant way with words that makes this book flow nicely. It is definetly worth your time to read this book. Cheers!

[Shalyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A few years ago when I cataloged my home library, I found a number of books by or about Sarah Ferguson, so I cannot deny that I may be biased in my review of her work. Maybe it's that we both have unmanageable hair, maybe it's that we both struggle with our weight, maybe it's that we both have broad ranging interests and abilities that sometimes leave us feeling like we concurrently have both way too many and way to few options when it comes to important making decisions in life. I don't know. But I find her both wonderfully flawed and completely relatable, and she's the only celebrity to whom I have attributed such status. This particular book doesn't necessarily present anything new, either about her personally or her approach to living and overcoming life's obstacles. But I did enjoy it as much as I would a handwritten letter from a dear old friend.

[Aria · Rating 2 out of 5]

Literally read while I was waiting for paint to dry. Served its purpose.

[Denise Tarasuk · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I Know Now is a perfect book that kindles the heart. Each story is touching, very personal, and beautifully written. I read Sarah Ferguson’s gem many years ago and bought 6 books to share with each of my friends. Yesterday, I pulled out the last copy to give away, for the love and kindness can be spread and must be shared. Once again, I am reading What I Know Now and I am still loving this perfect book. “Simple Lessons Learned the Hard Way” has touched my heart and I must say thank you Sarah Ferguson for kindly sharing with me!

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really well-written and enlightening book. I found it very interesting and was surprised at how candid and open Ms. Ferguson was. A wonderful read for anyone that admires her and even for those who do not. I like the over-all tone of the book and the way she takes full responsibility for all the choices she has made, whether good or bad. I would definately recommend this one.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a quick, inspirational book from someone who has admitted her mistakes and knows what to do so she doesn't repeat them. She's a much stronger person by learning through them and gives me hope that I too can rebound from the stupid things I've done in my life.

[Teshamae · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great bedtime reading when you want to read one essay and then fall asleep. Very insightful.

[Jean · Rating 2 out of 5]

i admire her, but not very impressed with this writing.
it's ok.

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nothing very profound, but some are thought provoking.

[Mary Lou · Rating 2 out of 5]

Eh. Flowery prose; forgettable.

[Sharon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Bland musings from Sarah, Duchess of York, she still needs to work on improving her self confidence. Short chapters, quick read.

[Diana · Rating 3 out of 5]

A little gem. A short sweet book on some life lessons Sarah Ferguson has "learned the hard way" as she says. Ranging on topics from regrets to co-parenting, food, fashion, etc. this would make a nice gift for a young woman, or for anyone for that matter.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short essays on a variety of subjects. How she managed to survive noteriety and land content, serene, and sane on the other side.

[Conni Kasprzak · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an easy light hearted read. It provided a glimpse into a side of Ms Ferguson rarely seen or heard. I really enjoyed it and I wish her only the best in all her future endeavors ❤️

[MaryAnn Bettilyon · Rating 4 out of 5]

More to Fergie than I thought

[Erin · Rating 2 out of 5]

Lackluster.