From Meghan Markle's 'The Bench' to Lil Nas X's 'C is for Country,' these are the best celeb children's books to read right now.
Meghan Markle, along with a handful of other celebrities, superstar athletes and even presidential inaugural poets (hi, Amanda Gorman), can now add "children's book author" to their list of accomplishments.
The Duchess of Sussex was just one of many who penned her first children's book, The Bench, in the past year. The beautifully illustrated story is a sweet homage to her husband, Prince Harry, and their son Archie. "The Bench started as a poem I wrote for my husband on Father's Day, the month after Archie was born," Markle shared. "That poem became this story."
She's by no means the only celebrity children's book author, though. In fact, you may be surprised to learn how many children’s books are actually penned by celebrity authors from Lil Nas X to Barack Obama and most recently, stars like Seth Meyers, Cynthia Erivo, Julianne Moore, LeBron James and more. Each have their own unique touch, some silly for parents and children alike (we’re looking at your book, Jimmy Fallon) and others, such as Sulwe by Lupita Nyong’o, teach important topics like self-love.
There’s no better time for bedtime than now, so without further ado, shop Meghan Markle's children's book plus our list of the best children’s books written by celebrities, below:
C is for Country
This is no ordinary alphabet book. 'C is for Country' puts a Lil Nas X spin on the genre as he and Panini the pony journey through the different letters. The story features bright colors, fun fashion, all things country and more.
I'm Not Scared, You're Scared
Seth Meyers' sweet new children's book tells the story of two quirky animal friends who learn the true meaning of bravery.
The Bench
Meghan Markle’s book "The Bench" focuses on multiple father-son relationships, as seen through the eyes of the mother. It is illustrated in watercolor by Christian Robinson with the intent to recreate the joy and softness seen from the mother’s point of view. It's currently available on Amazon.
Change Sings: A Children's Anthem
Presidential inaugural poet Amanda Gorman's words unfold beautifully throughout this heartfelt and inspiring children's book.
The One and Only Sparkella
Channing Tatum’s picture book is about a young girl named Ella who is excited to attend a new school with all her glittery accessories -- until she arrives and learns that the other kids don’t like her sparkle. It takes some courage and support from her dad, but Ella eventually learns how important it is to be yourself, regardless of what others say.
I Promise
This inspiring picture book from NBA Champion, LeBron James, reminds even its youngest readers that "tomorrow’s success starts with the promises we make to ourselves and our community today," according to the retailer.
Remember to Dream, Ebere
Cynthia Erivo's debut book perfectly encapsulates the power of hope, possibility and dreams — as important of a lesson for kiddos, as it is for adults too.
Your Baby's First Word Will Be DADA
Jimmy Fallon’s book is secretly self-serving. The picture book consists of different animals calling out to their fathers so your little one can finally start to get the hint about what they should be saying: Dada.
Sulwe
Sulwe dreamt of having skin as bright as her mother and sister’s until she goes on a magical journey through the night sky. In a powerful and inspirational story, Sulwe comes to learn that her midnight skin is perfect as it is, and that true beauty comes from within.
The World Needs Who You Were Made to Be
Joanna Gaines’ picture book is all about self-love. As a group of children build their own hot air balloons, they discover that the world becomes a brighter place when we all celebrate our differences.
Freckleface Strawberry
Julianne Moore's new book is perfect for teaching kiddos how to accept who they are and love every part of themselves — even their freckles.
Why Not You?
Discover that your wildest dreams are attainable in this illustrated book from Ciara and Russell Wilson.
Of Thee I Sing: A Letter to My Daughters
In a letter to his daughters, former President Barack Obama’s children’s book highlights 13 different American leaders that have changed the course of our country’s history. He writes about the characteristics that his children share with these national leaders, empowering all children in America to recognize that they, too, can change the world.
Cookie Meets Peanut
When Mom’s fur baby (Cookie) meets her real baby (Peanut) things do not go smoothly. Cookie learns to make room in her life for Peanut as she becomes a new, furry big sister.
Shady Baby
Inspired their own daughter, this picture book from Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade keeps it real and funny.
River Rose and the Magical Lullaby
River Rose is so excited to go to the zoo that she can’t fall asleep! Her mom finally gets her to snooze with a magical lullaby that takes River on a beautiful journey. Bonus: The book comes with a link to listen to the actual lullaby, performed by Kelly Clarkson.
The Adventures of Qai Qai
From the mind of superstar athlete Serena Williams, this picture book tells the story of a little girl as she learns to believe in herself — with the help of her doll and best friend, Qai Qai, no less.
I Am Perfectly Designed
The title speaks for itself! In Queer Eye star Karamo Brown’s children’s book, a father and son go on a walk through their city and name all of the reasons why they are perfectly designed for each other.
My Little Brave Girl
This poetic picture book empowers girls and women of all ages to dream big and take on the world with an open heart. It’s a love letter to little girls everywhere, inspired by Hilary Duff’s own daughter.
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