Dolly Parton Has A New Children's Book Coming Out Just In Time For Christmas

The book is now available for preorder.

Queen of the South and Tennessee mountain girl Dolly Parton has our hearts for many reasons, but her commitment to promoting literacy tops the list. To date, Dolly has donated over 232 million books to kids around the world through her Imagination Library, and she’s even authored a few for both children and adults, including a cookbook with her sister.

Last year, in her book Billy The Kid Makes It Big, Dolly introduced the world to a lovable French Bulldog inspired by her favorite “god-dog.” (It was an instant New York Times Best howler.) Now, this Christmas, Billy The Kid is back for a festive holiday adventure. Publishing with Penguin Young Readers on October 1, 2024, Billy The Kid Comes Home For Christmas is inspired by the lyrics of Dolly's hit song “Comin’ Home For Christmas.” In this brand-new children’s book, Billy The Kid—a pup who has it all, including a band and a cross-country tour—must decide between a show at Barkafeller Center on Christmas Day or going home to see his family.

“I always love celebrating Christmas with my family and of course my god-dog Billy,” said Dolly Parton. “Since he’s a big star now, he deserves his own holiday special! Using my “Comin’ Home For Christmas” lyrics, I wanted to tell a story about the importance of family and friends, especially during the holidays. I hope this is a book families will be excited to read every year for Christmas.”

Dolly wrote the book with Erica S. Perl, an award-winning children’s book author and writing teacher who lives with her family in Washington, D.C. Illustrations for “Billy The Kid Comes Home For Christmas” were done by MacKenzie Haley, a visual artist and best-selling illustrator who currently lives in Louisville, Kentucky.

This playful children’s book, which will certainly find itself under many Southern Christmas trees for years to come, is now available for preorder wherever books are sold. “Billy The Kid Comes Home For Christmas” is designated at a preschool to second-grade reading level, though we certainly will also be enjoying Billy’s adventures come Christmas.

Whether you’re a fan of Dolly Parton or you simply find yourself looking for a great Christmas gift to pass along this year, we know Billy The Kid will spark holiday joy across homes come October 1.

Don’t miss this heartwarming family tail!

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