1994
WISE Score
Amazon
Dolly Parton’s childhood memoir in book form—proof that you can be dirt poor and still have the flyest jacket in the second grade.
4.9
4.9View →Our reviews and ratings are 100% unbiased, but as an Amazon Associate, Screenwise earns an affiliate fee if you buy a book or game by clicking one of our links. We don't get any credit if you just Google it instead :)
It’s basically a hug in a 32-page format. If your kid is starting to notice who has the 'cool' sneakers or the newest gadgets, this is the perfect antidote.
It’s not flashy, and it’s definitely not 'Skibidi' energy, but it’s the kind of story that actually sticks with a kid. It's a classic for a reason, and since it's Dolly Parton, you know the heart is in the right place. It might be 'old,' but the message that you are more than your clothes is never going to be outdated.
Perfect for the 4-8 crowd. It’s simple enough for a preschooler to follow but carries enough emotional weight for a 2nd grader to actually think about.
It’s the gold standard for emotional health. It models a child finding security in her mother's love rather than material things, and handles the sting of bullying with grace and perspective.
It’s a literal retelling of Dolly Parton’s life and song. While the parallel to the biblical story of Joseph adds a nice layer of storytelling, it’s a grounded, realistic picture book, not a spark for wild creative play.
Zero concerns here. It’s a gentle children’s book. The 'conflict' is limited to some verbal teasing from classmates, which is exactly what the book is designed to help kids navigate.
Incredible for teaching empathy, resilience, and the idea that poverty doesn't define a person's worth. It’s a high-value tool for emotional intelligence.
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