Throw Back Thursday
Dolly Parton Announces New Anti-Bullying Children’s Book Inspired By Her God Dog Billy The Kid
December 12, 2022
Dolly Parton is one of the most beloved country music icons of today. But along with that, she’s an esteemed businesswoman.
Fans will be familiar with the legendary singer/songwriter’s Imagination Library, which she launched in 1995 to give young children the opportunity to become inspired through the gift of reading. Each month, the Imagination Library mails out books to children, from birth through their fifth birthday, at no cost to families.
Parton’s love of books is so big she has also earned the nickname “The Book Lady,” a title of a documentary about the “9 To 5” singer’s campaign for children’s literacy. On top of that, Parton is an author who has created her own series of Children’s books beginning with Coat Of Many Colors in 1994. Then, in 2009, she followed that up with I Am A Rainbow.
Now, Parton, 76, is onto her third book in the children’s collection. Released April 14 2023. Parton’s upcoming book is titled Dolly Parton’s Billy the Kid Makes it Big. Published through Penguin Workshop, an imprint of Penguin Young Readers, the picture book is all about the country icon’s god-dog, Billy the Kid.
Dolly Parton’s Billy the Kid Makes it Big follows the story of a puppy who loves barking to the beat of country music and wants to make it big as a country music star in Nashville. But along the way, Billy the Kid runs into a major obstacle. According to People, he becomes the target of bullies while competing at the Battle of the Bow-wows. To restore his self-confidence, and be the star he always knew he could be, he relies on his music and the help of some new friends.
“I am so proud to bring this book and the message it conveys to life,” Parton tells People. “Years back I wrote a song ‘Makin’ Fun Ain’t Funny‘ for my children’s album I Believe In You. I wanted kids to understand how harmful bullying can be to someone.”
This isn’t the first time Dolly has spotlighted Billy the Kid. Her god dog was also the star in the promotional images for her newly established pet apparel and accessories line: Doggy Parton.
“Since he’s a big star now, I knew a story with him at the center of it could help drive home important messages in a unique way,” Parton explained.
“I really think it’s some of the best work I’ve ever done,” Parton revealed in an interview with TODAY’s Hoda Kotb, of the project set for release sometime in 2023. “I think so. Only because it’s different for me. I wanted it to be good.”
Written By: Centralcity.londini
