Dolly Parton, the beloved country music icon, passed away on August 25 at the age of 80, leaving behind a monumental legacy that transcends her illustrious musical career. While she is renowned for her enchanting voice and chart-topping hits, Parton was equally passionate about literature and literacy advocacy, dedicating a substantial part of her life to promoting reading among children.
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In 1995, Parton established the Imagination Library, a programme designed to bolster childhood literacy by offering free books to children from birth until they are ready for school. This initiative, which has delivered over 330 million books to young readers across the United States, reflects her unwavering belief in the transformative power of reading. Parton often spoke about her own experiences with books during her formative years, emphasising the importance of fostering a love for literature in the next generation.
Parton was not only an advocate for youth reading but also an accomplished author herself. She authored several books, ranging from children’s tales to adult thrillers, showcasing her versatility and creative talents. One of her notable works is the 2022 bestseller *Run, Rose, Run*, co-written with acclaimed author James Patterson. Their collaboration was born out of an innate rapport, as Patterson describes Parton as “down-to-earth” and “genuine.” Their partnership exemplifies not only a shared love for storytelling but also a refreshing approach to the publishing process, as they agreed to work together without the constraints of agents or lawyers.
Beyond her written works, Parton often shared her literary preferences with fans and followers. In a 2019 interview with Jenna Bush Hager, she discussed several books that greatly influenced her. This selection gives a glimpse into the literary tastes of a woman whose life story itself could fill volumes.
One of the books that left a significant impression on Parton is *The Little Engine That Could* by Watty Piper. She described this children’s classic as a source of comfort and motivation throughout her life. Whenever she faced challenges, Parton recalled how her mother would recount the tale, instilling in her the mantra, “I think I can.” This affirmation helped her nurture hope and perseverance, particularly when her dreams felt distant.
Parton also had a fondness for classic literature, exemplified by her admiration for *The Count of Monte Cristo* by Alexandre Dumas. In her conversation with Hager, she explained her attraction to the novel’s themes of redemption and resilience, highlighting her desire to explore works she had not encountered in her youth.
Another of her cherished reads is Sara Gruen’s *Water for Elephants*, a story that revolves around a young man’s journey into the heart of a travelling circus. This novel not only inspired a film adaptation and a Broadway musical but also touched Parton with its rich narrative about love and loss, reflecting her appreciation for character-driven stories.
Among her literary favourites, Parton expressed admiration for Lee Smith, referring to her as her favourite Southern writer. Smith’s novel *Black Mountain Breakdown* delves into the complexities of identity and belonging, themes that resonate deeply with Parton’s own life experiences.
Dolly Parton’s literary interests extended beyond classics to contemporary works as well, including *The Girl with the Louding Voice* by Abi Daré. This poignant tale of a young Nigerian girl’s struggle for education and independence is one that Parton wholeheartedly embraced, illustrating her commitment to uplifting voices from underrepresented communities.
Lastly, Parton’s reading list includes *Dear Edward* by Ann Napolitano, a heartwrenching story about a boy navigating life after a tragic plane crash. The emotional depth of this narrative speaks to Parton’s own empathy and understanding of human resilience.
Parton’s lasting impact on both music and literature will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations. Her Imagination Library has ignited a love for reading in countless children, while her own literary contributions highlight her multifaceted talent. As tributes pour in to celebrate her life, it is clear that Dolly Parton will be remembered not only as a superstar performer but also as a dedicated advocate for literacy and an ardent lover of books.