The Coat of Many Colours - Dolly Parton - ★★★★.½

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AUTHOR: Dolly Parton
GENRE: Children's Picture Book
PUBLICATION DATE: January 1, 1994
RATING: 4.5 stars.


I read this book in honour of one of the most generous humans who ever lived: Dolly Parton. I was never much into country music, so I don’t know many of her songs, but ever since I heard of her Imagination Library Project, I became a fan of her style of philanthropy. This book was adapted from a song she wrote by the same name, so it effectively combines two of her greatest contributions to the world: music and books.

The story tells us of a girl who loves the coat of many colours her mama sewed for her using rags. Though the other kids tease her in school for wearing a coat made of rags, the girl herself is never negative and doesn’t allow words to upset her because she stays strong in her belief that she is rich despite not having money. The name also alludes to Joseph’s multi-coloured coat from the Bible.

This beautiful book is simple and yet impactful. It shows kids how we are only as rich/strong/happy as we are and others’ words needn’t affect us. True happiness comes from within and not from external validation.

Because the book uses the song’s exact lyrics, it has a nice poetic tone to it. The repetition of the title helps stress the importance of the coat in the narrative. The lyrics are not always in perfect rhyme but as it is taken from the song, I get why there are some ups and downs in the meter.

The illustrations are also as colourful as the little girl’s coat. The light pastels are perfect for the fall setting.

The book ends with a little note written by Dolly on bullying and highlights how kindness is always a far better choice.

Definitely recommended. This would be a great option for kids aged 4-8 years old and can be used in homes as well as classrooms.

Here’s to Dolly Parton and her Imagination Library! May more billionaires be like her.

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