Written by the stars: 13 children’s books by celebrities
By Meredith Woerner, Variety
Several books by celebs have debuted recently, with positive messages for the whole family. Here are 13 of them, available now unless otherwise noted.
‘Remember to Dream, Ebere’ by Cynthia Erivo
Amazon.com
Titular character Ebere dreams big in Erivo’s book, imagining a career as the captain of a rocket ship after her mother insists that no dream is too out of reach. This heartwarming tale is a message of hope and possibility, serving as an entertaining way to build optimistic motivation in any child.
‘Peanut Goes for the Gold’ by Jonathan Van Ness
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The “Queer Eye” star brings his signature humor and positivity to the pages of his first children’s book, which follows the adventures of a gender nonbinary guinea pig named Peanut.
‘Sulwe’ by Lupita Nyong’o
Amazon.com
Written by Lupita Nyong’o and illustrated by Vashti Harrison, the story follows a Kenyan girl, Sulwe, who wishes she looked more like her family members.
“Sulwe” is a beautiful story about self-esteem and inspires children to see their own individual beauty.
‘Shady Baby’ by Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade Jr.
Amazon.com
This upbeat picture book is inspired by Union and Wade’s youngest daughter, Kaavia James, and her famous side-eye. Shady Baby uses her voice and confidence to hold her peers accountable for playing nicely.
‘C Is for Country’ by Lil Nas X
Amazon.com
Learn your ABCs with crossover music sensation Lil Nas X. Like the multitalented fashion icon and rapper, this New York Times bestseller combines learning the alphabet with gorgeous illustrations by Theodore Taylor III. And yes, there’s plenty of country-meets-fashion moments when “B” is for boots.
‘The Bench’ by Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex
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Meghan Markle’s picture book brings readers into the special relationship between father and son, seen through a mother’s eyes. The story is special because it gives a realistic take on the evolving relationship children can have with their parents in the modern age.
‘The Tale of the Mandarin Duck: A Modern Fable’ by Bette Midler
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Inspired by a real-life mandarin duck at the Pond in Central Park, Midler spins a modern fable. Illustrated by Joana Avillez, with photos of New York City by Michiko Kakutani, this tale celebrates the joy in the little things, like a rainbow-colored duck.
‘I Promise’ by LeBron James
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This inspirational story is based on James’ charity foundation, which motivates children to reach for the stars and “strive for greatness.” This rhyming narrative, with art by Nina Mata, encourages kids to dream big and that they can achieve goals with hard work.
‘Change Sings: A Children’s Anthem’ by Amanda Gorman
Amazon.com
The words of Amanda Gorman sparked hope at President Joe Biden’s inauguration, and now the poet wants to inspire the next generation with her “lyrical prose” picture book, illustrated by Loren Long. The story follows a young girl on a musical journey who discovers she and her friends have the power to make a difference.
‘I Don’t Want to Read This Book’ by Max Greenfield
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Max Greenfield — Schmidt from “New Girl” — caters to all the kids who think they hate reading in this satirical picture book that breaks the fourth wall. Alongside bestselling illustrator Mike Lowery, he hilariously lists all the things he’d rather be doing than actually reading this book. Available Nov. 9
‘Natalie Portman’s Fables’ by Natalie Portman
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The Oscar winner retells three classic fables: “The Three Little Pigs,” “The Tortoise and the Hare” and “Country Mouse and City Mouse.” Come for the rhyming tales; stay for artist Janna Mattia’s stunning illustrations.
‘Marcus Makes a Movie’ by Kevin Hart
Amazon.com
Creative kids will appreciate Hart’s novel about a boy who realizes he has the chance to make his superhero cartoons into a real-life movie. Not only is it jam-packed with Hart’s signature humor, but it touches on important themes: never giving up and bringing your creative goals to life.
‘Sweet Child O’ Mine’ by Guns N’ Roses
Amazon.com
A re-telling of the Guns N’ Roses song “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” this picture book reimagines the power ballad as a story about two girls, Maya and Natalia Rose, who have grown up touring with the band. This book is quite literally the lyrics paired with sweet paintings from artist Jennifer Zivoin, and could be described as evoking a smile that reminds of childhood memories.