Bootleg Betty
Top 10 Children’s Books Written by Female Musicians
By Mister D
March 6, 2026
There’s something magical that happens when a woman who can command a stage decides to write for children. The spotlight softens, the mic drops to story?time level, and suddenly the same voices that belt anthems, lull crowds, or shake arenas are whispering directly to the next generation.
From divas to folk poets, from pop royalty to Broadway legends, these women didn’t just lend their names to picture books — they poured their artistry, humor, and heart into them. Some wrote modern fables, some adapted their most beloved songs, and some created entire glitter?dusted worlds where confidence, kindness, and creativity take center stage.
This list celebrates the Top 10 Children’s Books Written by Female Musicians — a blend of camp, culture, and genuine storytelling charm. Whether they’re teaching emotional literacy, spinning whimsical tales, or reminding kids (and adults) to stay fabulous, these artists prove that their voices resonate just as powerfully on the page as they do on the stage.
Curtains up. Storybooks open. Let the divas read.
1. The Saga of Baby Divine — Bette Midler (1983)
A rhinestone?studded fable about a baby born fabulous and determined to stay that way. It’s pure early?’80s Bette: bold, brassy, and dipped in glitter.
2. Coat of Many Colors — Dolly Parton (Oct 1, 1994)
A heartfelt adaptation of her iconic song, celebrating love, resourcefulness, and mama-made pride. BB Vibe: Patchwork couture meets Appalachian tenderness.
3. The Very Fairy Princess — Julie Andrews (May 1, 2010)
Julie and her daughter Emma Walton Hamilton deliver a sparkly tale about a girl who knows she’s a fairy princess — wings or no wings.
4. I Am a Rainbow — Dolly Parton (May 14, 2009)
Dolly teaches kids to name and navigate their emotions — with the same warmth she brings to every stage she’s ever stepped on. BB Vibe: Feelings, but rhinestoned.
5. The Tale of the Mandarin Duck: A Modern Fable — Bette Midler (Feb 16, 2021)
Inspired by the real-life viral duck who captivated NYC, Bette spins a gentle story about beauty, attention, and the magic of seeing the world clearly.
6. Merry Christmas, Baby! — Mariah Carey (Oct 2022)
Mariah expands her holiday empire with a festive picture book celebrating joy, sparkle, and seasonal fabulousness.
7. Mary Can! — Mary J. Blige (Mar 28, 2023)
An empowering story about believing in yourself, written by the Queen of Hip?Hop Soul herself.
8. The English Roses — Madonna (Sept 15, 2003)
Madonna’s debut children’s book explores jealousy, kindness, and friendship through a modern fairy?tale lens.
9. Libba: The Magnificent Musical Life of Elizabeth Cotten — Laura Veirs (Jan 23, 2018)
Singer?songwriter Laura Veirs honors folk legend Elizabeth Cotten with a lyrical, beautifully illustrated biography.
10. Women Who Rock, Pop & Hip?Hop! (Little Golden Book Boxed Set, 2023)
Not musician?authored, but a perfect introduction to powerhouse women like Dolly, Beyoncé, Taylor, and more.
