Dolly Parton is a name that resonates with many, not just as a country music legend but as a philanthropist and advocate for children’s literacy. Her love for books and reading led her to establish the Imagination Library in 1995, a book gifting program that mails free, high-quality books to children from birth until they begin school. This guide will take you through some of the best Dolly Parton books for kids, each filled with inspiring lessons, heartwarming stories, and the magic Dolly can bring.
Billy the Kid, a French bulldog who loves country music, embarks on a journey to Nashville to pursue his passion. However, he encounters bullies at the battle of the bow-wows, shaking his confidence. Armed with his favorite tunes, newfound friends, and the support of his beloved country star, Billy learns to stand up against adversity and chase his dreams. Co-authored by Dolly Parton and Erica S. Perl, this picture book is a heartwarming tale of resilience and the pursuit of dreams, despite obstacles.
I Am a Rainbow
Parton’s “I Am a Rainbow” is a vibrant and engaging picture book that guides children in understanding and expressing their emotions. Through colorful illustrations and uplifting narrative, it encourages children to respect not only their feelings but others’ feelings too.
This book empowers children of all ages to recognize to take charge of their emotions, fostering emotional intelligence from an early age.
Coat of Many Colors
“Coat of Many Colors” is another Parton’s picture book set in her childhood home, the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. Inspired by her song’s lyrics, the story follows a young girl whose mother crafts her a winter coat from scraps. Despite facing ridicule from peers for her poverty, she learns that the value of love outweighs material wealth.
The girl finds warmth in love sewn into every stitch. “Coat of Many Colors” is equipped with illustrations and Parton’s lyrical prose that delivers a profound message to young readers about cherishing love over material possessions.
Children’s Books Recommended by Dolly Parton
Little People, Big Dreams: Dolly
Dolly, a Tennessee native, started her music journey in a humble setting. Despite early pressures to pursue pop, she chose country music and became a superstar. Never forgetting her roots, she now uses her success to support those in need.
This book is part of the Little People, BIG DREAMS series, which pairs Dolly’s inspiring story with vibrant illustrations. The series celebrates remarkable individuals who started as dreaming children and achieved greatness. From board books for toddlers to expanded stories for older children, the series offers inspiring tales across various formats, making these role models’ lives accessible to all young readers.
Baby! Talk!
“Penny Gentieu’s ‘Baby! Talk!‘ is an introductory word book designed especially for little ones. It serves as a valuable guide for parents, caregivers, and family members, introducing them to the words and expressions that stimulate babies to communicate and experiment with their verbal skills.
The interactive format of ‘Baby! Talk!’ promotes the development of essential communication skills and early language learning. Perfect for sharing, this book forms a crucial bridge between adults and babies in their journey towards effective communication.”
Who Says Quack?
“Who Says Quack?” by Jerry Smith splashes into the scene, inviting young readers to embark on an interactive animal symphony! Dive into captivating illustrations, whimsical rhymes, and discover who says “quack,” “moo,” “baa,” and more!
As children giggle and learn, this charming book creates fun and fosters early language skills. Whether it’s storytime or bedtime, “Who Says Quack?” is an absolute family favorite!
Look at the Animals
“Look at the Animals” is another picture book that brings the animal kingdom to life. Each page unveils stunning illustrations of diverse animals, shedding light on their habitats, behaviors, and unique traits.
This book ignites curiosity, imparting valuable insights about the wonders of nature. Tailored for aspiring animal enthusiasts, “Look at the Animals” promises to stir young hearts with joy and fuel their imaginations.
Sleep Tight, Polar Bear (Little Loves)
Snuggle up with “Sleep Tight, Polar Bear (Little Loves)” by Sabina Gibson and join an irresistibly cute polar bear cub and her fluffy arctic friends as they tuck in for a cozy, snow-kissed night.
This book gives you a sneak peek into the day-to-day antics of endearing polar families, from the crack of dawn to the starlit bedtime. Witness seal pups catching some z’s and narwhals tallying fish as they peacefully nod off to dreamland. This enchanting tale is just the ticket for your little one’s bedtime routine – it’s sure to have them yawning.
Corduroy’s Shapes
Get ready with your little one for a fantastic adventure with everyone’s favorite teddy bear, Corduroy, in MaryJo Scott’s “Corduroy’s Shapes.” You’ll be captivated by a fun-filled picnic escapade where you’ll encounter everything from round cakes to diamond-shaped kites.
With a sprinkle of text and a splash of colorful illustrations, this book is just the ticket for young explorers embarking on their learning odyssey.
Good Morning Farm Friends
Rise and shine with “Good Morning, Farm Friends” by Annie Bach. This book is a peppy morning anthem that captures the hustle and bustle of farm animals as they shake off sleep and gear up for a day packed with fun. Ideal for little bookworms, this story is a riot of color and rhyme, painting a lively picture of the buzzing farm.
You will join the pigs, cows, and horses as they jumpstart their day and the rooster making his morning rounds. This book will add a dose of sunshine to your little one’s morning routine.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s First Summer
Soak up the sunshine with “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” and his merry band of friends in this summertime saga by Eric Carle! In this book, you’ll dive into a world of sensory delights as your little one learns to appreciate the simple pleasures of a sunny day – from tuning in to the symphony of buzzing bugs to basking in the golden rays to inhaling the mouthwatering aroma of a backyard barbecue.
“The Very Hungry Caterpillar” serves up a slice of summer on every page, whisking little ones off on a sun-drenched adventure they’ll remember with their best-loved characters.
Little Poems for Tiny Ears
“Little Poems for Tiny Ears” is an adorable anthology of baby poems brought to life by the dynamic duo Lin Oliver and Tomie dePaola. An ideal pick for baby showers and first birthdays, this collection of original poems celebrates the everyday magic that keeps little ones enthralled – from a thrilling game of peekaboo to fun-filled splashes at bath time.
The “Little Poems for Tiny Ears” is an introductory to the world of poetry for young children. It’s like a joyride through verse, waiting for your little one to hop on.
Home Builders
Pack your child’s imagination and venture into the magical world of woodland critters with “The Home Builders” by Varsha Bajaj. This illustrated picture book has highlighted the lives of animals as they roll up their metaphorical sleeves and get to work building homes for their soon-to-arrive youngsters.
“Home Builders” explores a tranquil trek through quiet forests where animal parents work hard- digging, tunneling, gnawing, and gathering materials to construct snug nests, cozy dens, and comfy lodges. Before you know it, the woods are teeming with adorable new arrivals, ready to explore their home sweet home.
Dandelion Magic
Buckle up for “Dandelion Magic” by Darren Farrell! Follows Jonah’s world, where dandelions aren’t just pretty flowers but also magical wish-bearers.
With a sprinkle of sensory fun – blowing the wind, making silly faces, and creating raspberry sounds – your kiddos can explore on a swashbuckling journey with Jonah, navigating through seas and crossing paths with intriguing sea monsters. This captivating story inspires young minds and fosters an undying love for reading.
Green Tractor
“Green Tractor” by Kersten Hamilton trails the much-loved machine as it assists its farmer buddy, gearing up for some rip-roaring pumpkin races, and takes center stage pulling a wagon for a hair-raising hayride.
This book will have young readers head over tractor wheels in love while and teach them about the delightful hustle and bustle of life on the farm. This story applauds teamwork, showcases the charm of farm life, and promises a thrilling harvest day adventure for the little ones.
Birding for Babies: Backyard Birds
“Birding for Babies: Backyard Birds” by Chloe Goodhart is a captivating exploration of bird-watching for young readers. This engaging book combines nature and numbers, introducing children to the charm of backyard birds like woodpeckers to mockingbirds. The book inspires families to embrace the outdoors and instills a love for nature in the young ones. A perfect blend of education and enjoyment, it’s a must-read for fostering curiosity and environmental appreciation.
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The Big Slide
Daniel Kirk’s “The Big Slide” is a heartwarming tale about overcoming fears and embracing new experiences. The story follows Little Pup and Little Duck, two friends who, despite their apprehension, decide to conquer the playground’s slide together. Their journey of finding courage through friendship teaches children the importance of stepping out of their comfort zones.
Ice Cream Face
Heidi Woodward Sheffield’s “Ice Cream Face” is a joyous journey into a child’s love for ice cream and the emotions that come with it. Our little hero dreams of ice cream at every meal, but the wait can be challenging. Witness his frustration melt away as he finally grabs his cone. This delightful story sweetly guides children through lessons of patience, emotional understanding, and savoring life’s simple delights.
A Story for Small Bear
“A Story for Small Bear” by Alice B. McGinty is a heartwarming journey into the wonder of autumn and the coziness of hibernation preparation. Join Small Bear and Mama in their delightful adventures, filled with nature’s beauty and captivating stories. This enchanting tale encapsulates the excitement of exploration and the precious bond between parent and child, making it an unforgettable reading experience.
This Is the Tree We Planted
Kate McMullan’s “This Is the Tree We Planted” takes young readers on a thrilling journey as the class plants a tree and witnesses the bustling ecosystem it fosters – from vigilant robins to stealthy lizards. This vibrant tale instills a love for nature and encourages curiosity and a profound bond with the environment. It’s an invitation to appreciate and explore the natural world, making it an essential read for young nature enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Dolly Parton’s books for kids offer a delightful blend of engaging storytelling and valuable life lessons. They charm young readers with their captivating characters and narratives while instilling important values such as kindness, perseverance, and the love for learning.
From tales about childhood adventures to stories that inspire dreams, these books embody Dolly’s passion for literacy and dedication to inspiring the next generation. They are more than just books; they are gifts of love and wisdom from Dolly to children. No children’s bookshelf is complete without a touch of Dolly’s magic!
FAQs
How many books has Dolly Parton given to children?
Dolly’s book-gifting program has generously donated more than 211 million books to children throughout the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and the Republic of Ireland.
How often do kids get books from Dolly Parton?
Every month, registered children from birth to age five receive a delightful delivery of these books.
How many books does one receive from the Dolly Parton Imagination Library?
By enrolling a child at birth, they can receive up to 60 diverse books by the time they turn five, marking their transition into a new stage of development.
When was Dolly Parton most popular?
Dolly Parton was at the peak of her career when she unveiled the melodic masterpiece “It’s All Wrong, But It’s All Right” in 1977.
What makes Dolly Parton so popular?
Dolly’s popularity extends beyond her role as a singer/songwriter. Though her multifaceted talents have earned her a place in history, her genuine and compassionate heart makes people love her the most. Her kind heart is just one of the many charming qualities she has.
As a writer, I've always found solace in the pages of a good book. From chasing sunsets and sunrises to diving into fascinating narratives, reading has proven to be an effective stress reliever and a constant source of inspiration for me. With an insatiable love for exploring unique stories and perspectives, I'm passionate about creating book content that connects with readers, stimulates the mind, and challenges the status quo.
