If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Variety may receive an affiliate commission.
A surprise to any parent with access to YouTube, a children’s obsession and a TV guru for little ones, the first children’s book by Ms. Rachel is already selling in large quantities on Amazon. A former childhood teacher turned piper of little humans has the ability to make any grouchy child smile. Our low-stimulus, learning-focused videos (which can garner up to 100 million views each) help toddlers and babies form their first words with repetition and joy.
Joined by several singing friends and her husband, Ms. Rachel has received accolades from speech therapists, the New York Times and thousands of exhausted parents who need just a minute.
Ms. Rachel is a god in my house and I would follow her famous hairstyle and work clothes into the ocean if she asked, so yes, I will definitely support the good work this woman is doing by giving everyone a short (but educational) break by purchasing “Ms. Rachel and the Special Surprise!: Encouraging speech and learning through play and music. However, it doesn’t look like she’ll need any help from us since her book is already number one on Amazon for kids’ school issues.
There’s no shortage of great modern literature for early readers written by beloved stars everyone wishes they had in their family, like Lil Nas Below, check out Klugman’s new book and more unique children’s books by bold names like Lupita Nyong’o, Amanda Gorman, and more.
“Ms. Rachel and the special surprise”
Like her videos, Ms. Rachel’s new book features 20 important milestones you can strive for as you read. This image includes the mystery box “What’s in the box, what could it be, do you want to take something with me?” Illustrations by Monique Dong. Ms. Rachel revealed on her Instagram account, “The book uses the same presentation techniques to encourage speech and 20 teachers, all through a fun story.” You can pre-order the book now which has an expected release date of September 24th.
“I don’t want to read this book out loud.”
Perfect for children ages 4-8, this picture book is a no-brainer for younger readers who may not like to read aloud or even read at all. According to the synopsis, the book is “for introverts of all ages, about the horrors of reading out loud.” Greenfield has once again teamed up with best-selling illustrator Mike Lowry who excels at creating adorable minifigures and stunning typography. Pre-orders are currently available and will be officially released on September 19.
“The Secret Society of Aunts and Uncles”
Russ & Daughters enthusiast Jake Gyllenhaal has also entered the world of children’s literature. He was surprised to find no books about his new job as an uncle, and he was inspired to write a new children’s novel called The Secret Society of Aunts and Uncles. Co-written by Greta Caruso and illustrated by Dan Santat, this book is a guide to the ins and outs of “aunty” and “aunty” for kids.
‘You are as you are’
Actor and director Brian Klugman – best known for his role in “Bones” and his 2012 film “The Words” – has released his first book to support mental health awareness. After becoming a father last year, Klugman teamed up with MindUP for Life to write a powerful children’s book called “You Are You,” whose poetic verses serve as an instruction manual for children everywhere on how to love themselves. Klugman will donate 100% of the proceeds from the book to MindUP, a training program for parents, youth and teachers to help overcome mental barriers to success in school and beyond.
In “You Are You,” Klugman uses rhythmic poetry to help spread the message to children everywhere about the importance of loving your unique self. “As a new father and having struggled with my own challenges as a child, I wanted to write something that would resonate with all children, regardless of their background,” Klugman said in a statement. “It was also very important for me to find the right organization that I could donate my proceeds to so that we could reach more kids and together bring this self-love guide to the forefront.”
“Remember to dream, Ebere.”
The titular character Ebere dreams big in Erivo’s first picture book, dreaming of a career as a rocket ship captain after her mother insists that no dream is too far-fetched. This cheerful tale is a message of hope and possibility, and serves as a fun way to build optimistic motivation in any child.
“the seat”
The headline-grabbing new picture book by Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, brings readers into the special relationship between father and son, seen through a mother’s eyes. The story is special because it gives a realistic look at the evolving relationship that children can have with their parents in the modern age.
“Peanuts go to gold”
Jonathan Van Ness is the embodiment of the fun, gay uncle that every kid wants to have while growing up. The “Queer Eye” star brings his signature humor and positivity to the pages of his first children’s book, which follows the adventures of a non-binary guinea pig named Peanut.
“Marcus is making a movie”
Kids brimming with creativity will appreciate comic star Kevin Hart’s novel about a young boy who realizes he has a chance to turn the superhero cartoons he’s been drawing for years into a live-action movie. Not only is it filled with Hart’s signature humor, it touches on important themes familiar to Hart as well: hustle, never giving up and achieving your creative goals.
“The Tale of the Mandarin Duck: A Modern Tale”
Inspired by the real-life Mandarin duck that awakened magic and fashion in the pond in Central Park, the adorable waterfowl is the main character in superstar Bette Midler’s modern-day tale. Illustrated by Joanna Aviles, with New York City imagery by Michiko Kakutani, this tale celebrates the joy in small things like the rainbow-colored duck.
“The world needs more purple people.”
Beloved actress Kristen Bell introduces the world to Purple People in her first-ever picture book, which aims to transcend political division by highlighting all the things that bring people together in this world, despite their differences. So, what is a purple person? According to Bill, he is an everyday superhero who brings his community together, speaks up for what is right, and works for what they believe in.
“C for country”
Learn your ABCs with crossover music sensation Lil Nas And yes, there are plenty of country-meets-fashion moments when the “B” is for boots, and cowboy looks include an array of stitches and colors from pink, yellow, red, blue and brown.
“Natalie Portman’s Myths”
The Oscar winner retells three classic tales: “The Three Little Pigs,” “The Tortoise and the Hare,” and “The Country Mouse and the City Mouse.” Come to the rhyming tales; Follow artist Jana Mattia’s stunning illustrations.
“Shady baby”
‘I promise you’
An inspiring story launched by the LeBron James Charitable Foundation with the “I Promise” program that encourages and motivates children to get started and “strive for greatness.” This rhyming story, with art by Nina Mata, encourages children to dream big and that their goals are achievable if they work hard.
‘sweet child o mine’
A retelling of Guns N’ Roses’ song “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” this picture book reimagines the power ballad as a story about two girls, Maya and Natalia Rose, who grew up touring with the band. This book is composed of words combined with beautiful paintings by Jennifer Zevoin, and can be described as conjuring up a smile that seems to remind me of childhood memories.
“Soloi”
Written by Lupita Nyong’o and illustrated by Vashti Harrison, the story revolves around a Kenyan girl, Sulwe, who wishes to look like her family members. “Soloi” is a beautiful story about self-esteem and inspires children to see their individual beauty. The Oscar-winning actress’s first children’s book will soon be turned into an animated musical for Netflix.
“Change Sings: An Anthem for Children”
Amanda Gorman’s words sparked hope at President Joe Biden’s inauguration, and now the poet wants to inspire the next generation with her “lyrical prose” picture book. The story follows a young girl on a musical journey who discovers that she (and her friends) have the power to make a difference. Illustrated by Lauren Long, it is available to pre-order for the September issue.