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.
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Now, Parton, 76, is onto her third book in the children’s collection. Set for a release on April 13, 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.”
The latest book in Parton’s collection is aimed at readers ages 4 to 7. But anyone can get joy from opening it up, thanks to its illustrations provided by MacKenzie Haley and adorable storyline.
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 hope this is the first of many books with Billy.”
Parton’s latest venture comes as she wraps up a celebratory 2022. This year, after her initial hesitation, the country music legend was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. She will follow that up with her first-ever rock ‘n’ roll album, which she says “is the best work I’ve ever done.”
“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.”
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Parton will also ring in 2023 on a high note. She is slated to co-host Miley’s New Year’s Eve Party with her goddaughter, Miley Cyrus. Miley’s New Year’s Eve Party will broadcast live from Miami on Saturday, Dec. 31, from 10:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. ET on NBC.
Viewers can also stream the celebration live on Peacock.
