Celebrities often have children’s books written about them, but it is not unusual for celebrities to write children’s books of their own. Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James has an upcoming children’s book called I Promise.
Illustrated by artist Nina Mata, I Promise is LeBron James’ first children’s book. Named after the elementary school he founded in his hometown of Akron, Ohio in 2018, I Promise is a “lively and inspiring picture book that reminds us that tomorrow’s success starts with the promises we make to ourselves and our community today.”
LeBron James is a proud father to three kids he shares with his wife Savannah James: 15-year-old LeBron “Bronny” James Jr., 13-year-old Bryce, and 5-year-old Zhuri James. In a recent interview with Parents, LeBron explained that he made I Promise to help children realize the best versions of themselves.
“I hope they realize they can do anything. I want them to be confident in themselves and what they’re capable of,” said LeBron. “Kids just want to know someone believes in them. If we can give them confidence and hope for their future, that changes everything for them. I hope this book can be that source of inspiration and that push they need to go for their dreams.”
As an advocate for children’s education, LeBron James has “always loved” reading books because of the lessons they teach regardless of age. “You can learn so much from books. They can take you places you’ve never been, put you in situations you never considered, and help you find inspiration,” says LeBron. “Reading others’ stories is what gives us perspective and opens our minds to so much possibility. When I need to disconnect or get away for a bit, I read. And I like having the books in my hand and being able to take them with me wherever I go. Books are an irreplaceable form of learning.”
I Promise comes out on August 11, 2020.
