In a delightful twist of events, Jeff Bezos, Amazon’s founder and billionaire, has taken to his platform to leave a glowing review for a new children’s book, The Fly Who Flew to Space. Written by his fiancée, Lauren Sanchez, the book has gained attention for more than just its story—it has received an enthusiastic endorsement from Bezos himself.
On September 10, Sanchez introduced the world to her debut children’s book. It tells the tale of Flynn, a tiny fly with grand ambitions of becoming an astronaut. Through colorful illustrations and an uplifting narrative, Flynn manages to find her way into space aboard a rocketship, defying the odds and capturing the imagination of young readers.
Bezos, not one to shy away from public praise, gave the book five stars and accompanied his rating with an 11-word review: “This is the best children’s book my fiancée has ever written.” While the statement may seem brimming with affection, it’s also worth noting that The Fly Who Flew to Space is Sanchez’s first foray into writing, making it technically the only book she has ever authored.
A Budding Bestseller?
Priced at $16.99, The Fly Who Flew to Space includes a captivating story and a removable glow-in-the-dark poster. This addition promises to make the book an interactive and engaging experience for children. As of now, the book boasts an impressive 4.8-star average from 60 reviews on Jeff Bezos sprawling retail empire, Amazon.
Despite the positive reception, controversy surrounds the book’s originality. Sanchez now faces a lawsuit from her former yoga instructor, Alanna Zabel, who claims that the central plot of The Fly Who Flew to Space mirrors the concept of her 2023 book, Dharma Kitty Goes to Mars. Zabel alleges that she conceived the idea in 2002 and extensively discussed the storyline with Lauren Sanchez between 2007 and 2011.
According to a protest obtained by Page Six, Zabel accuses Sanchez of appropriating her concept and claims to have even suggested to Bezos that proceeds from the book should benefit his charitable ventures, the Bezos Earth Fund, and the Bezos Academy.
A Heartfelt Story with Personal Resonance
While the lawsuit adds an unexpected twist to Sanchez’s publishing debut, the author has focused on the personal meaning behind the story. Sanchez first revealed plans for her book in March 2024, taking to Instagram to express her excitement. “I am beyond grateful because this story holds a piece of my heart,” she wrote in a heartfelt post.
She explained that the book is more than just a whimsical space adventure. It reflects the importance of perseverance, learning, and embracing one’s dreams. These themes hold a special place for Lauren Sanchez, who has been open about her struggles with dyslexia as a child. In a promotional appearance on Good Morning America, she shared how her experiences inspired the story: “This book is for my eight-year-old self who felt dumb.”
Sanchez also credited Raleigh Stewart, the book’s illustrator, with bringing her vision to life. She praised his work, describing the illustrations as “pure magic” and vital to the book’s charm.
A Legal Battle on the Horizon
While The Fly Who Flew to Space continues to receive praise from readers—and a particularly notable Amazon review from its author’s fiancé—the looming lawsuit casts a shadow over the book’s future. Zabel’s claim that Sanchez took inspiration from her earlier work without acknowledgment could lead to a legal battle that may overshadow the book’s early success.
Regardless of the legal issues, The Fly Who Flew to Space is making waves, partly thanks to its high-profile endorsement. As young readers continue to explore Flynn’s daring journey to space, it remains to be seen how the unfolding drama will affect the book’s trajectory in the marketplace.
