Grace Byers, the acclaimed star of the hit series Empire, has unveiled her latest children’s book, titled *I Am Wonderfully Me*. This latest work serves as a tribute to the extraordinary nature of bodies and the unique characteristics that shape each individual. Set to be published by HarperCollins Children’s Books on 20 October, the book is already available for pre-order.
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The inspiration behind *I Am Wonderfully Me* stems from Byers’ own experiences as a parent. The narrative draws on her son’s natural curiosity about himself and his fascination with the complexities of the human body. The book encapsulates the sense of wonder that children feel as they explore their physical selves and how they evolve over time. Byers expresses this sentiment in the book’s synopsis, stating, “Watching her son’s constant discoveries served as a gentle reminder that our very first awareness of who we are begins with just how compelling our bodies can be.”
In a statement released to PEOPLE, Byers described her new work as “an ode to the joy, wonder and beauty of being fearfully and wonderfully made.” She points out that while her previous titles, *I Am Enough* and *I Believe I Can*, focus on inner beauty, *I Am Wonderfully Me* starts with the celebration of the outer body before moving inward. “Bringing this third story to life has meant so much to me, and I can’t wait to share it with you,” she added.
The illustrations for *I Am Wonderfully Me* are the collaborative effort of Lisbeth Checo and the late Keturah A. Bobo. Keturah, who was a New York Times bestselling illustrator, tragically passed away before the book’s completion. However, she managed to sketch the initial artwork, which Checo then refined and finalised, preserving Bobo’s unique vision and artistry. This collaboration aims to captivate young audiences while delivering Byers’ empowering message.
In her literary journey, Byers debuted with *I Am Enough* in 2018, followed by *I Believe I Can*. Both books garnered significant attention, making their way onto the New York Times bestseller list and receiving praise from readers and critics alike. Grace Byers, who is currently part of the Amazon Prime series Harlem, has successfully merged her acting career with her literary ambitions, providing positive narratives for children.
Lisbeth Checo, the illustrator working alongside Bobo, is a first-generation Dominican American based in New York City. Her work often intertwines themes of cultural identity and feminine expression, resulting in stylised portraits and designs that resonate with diverse audiences. Checo’s art has been widely published in various magazines and exhibited in solo shows, including her notable work titled “The Skin I’m In.”
Keturah A. Bobo was well-regarded for her vibrant and relatable illustrations that have brought numerous children’s stories to life. She was known for her distinctive style, which has earned her significant appreciation across the literary community. Alongside Byers, Bobo contributed to other celebrated titles such as *My Brown Boy* and *A Boy and His Mirror*.
*I Am Wonderfully Me* carries a message of self-acceptance and body positivity that aims to resonate with young readers, encouraging them to embrace their individuality and the beauty of their unique forms. The book is expected to appeal not only to children but also to parents, educators, and anyone invested in fostering self-love and confidence in the younger generation.
The anticipation surrounding the release of *I Am Wonderfully Me* reflects the growing demand for children’s literature that promotes diversity, positivity, and self-empowerment. With its scheduled release approaching, considerable excitement builds around how this book will impact children’s lives, much like Byers’ previous works. Readers and fans can look forward to adding this meaningful title to their collections when it officially hits the shelves later this month.