Dolly Parton wants you to take the time to read! (Yes, even if that means in the bathroom.) The icon shows us her very Dolly-esque book collection in Marie Claire’s latest episode of Shelf Portrait, where celebrities, influencers, and famous bookworms invite us inside their homes to show off their personal libraries.
Aside from sweet family pictures and a mini piano that Parton considers a family heirloom, the singer and songwriter’s bookshelf holds very special books, including the one her sister Willadeene wrote—In the Shadow of a Song: The Story of the Parton Family (1985)—as well as Oral History (2011), by her favorite southern writer, Lee Smith, and Big Stone Gap (2001), by Adriana Trigiani. Parton has written several books herself, like the children’s book I Am a Rainbow (2009) and Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business (1994). Her brand new book is Dolly Parton, Songteller: My Life in Lyrics (2020), which happens to make an excellent holiday gift!
As for the book she’s read more than any other? The Bible! Parton finds a lot of strength and wisdom in it, and the verses often inspire her song lyrics. The Little Engine That Could is another favorite of hers, especially while she was growing up, as well as The Grapes of Wrath, which she’s read at least three times. Old classics have helped her cope during this tumultuous year.
Don’t expect her to read on a Kindle any time soon, though. Dolly is a paperback gal. Find out more about Parton’s book collection in her Shelf Portrait video (above), then shop the ultimate Dolly Parton gift guide (below).
RELATED STORIES
-
The Y2K Revival Is Coming for Your Bikini LinePrepare to be super smooth down there.
-
Why Prince William Grew a Beard and Changed His Style After Princess Kate's Cancer Scare"He finally sees, feels and appreciates the strong support and affection he can enjoy from the public."
-
How Michelle Obama's Suit Subtly Supported Kamala HarrisThe look was polished and purposeful—while matching with VP Harris.
-
The 21 Best Books About the British Royal Family, From Tell-All Memoirs to Nonfiction Historical TitlesThey have more shocking revelations and juicy secrets than you saw on 'The Crown.'
-
32 Celebrity Podcasts Worth Listening ToGrab some headphones and tune in.
-
The 30 Best Mystery Thriller Books to Read in Fall 2024As soon as you feel a chill in the air, you'll want to curl up with one of these page-turners.
-
How Laci Mosley Turned "Scam Goddess" Into Her "True Con" EmpireThe actress built a "con-gregation" with her popular podcast, and now she's expanding it with a new book.
-
As 'He's Just Not That Into You' Turns 20, Its Authors Reflect on Just How Much (and How Little) Dating Has ChangedThe self-help book born out of 'Sex and the City' sparked a break-up revolution and became a pop culture phenomenon.
-
Rupi Kaur Reflects on Being Told Not to Self-Publish 'Milk and Honey'—But Feeling Empowered to Do It AnywayThe best-selling author and poet spoke to editor-in-chief Nikki Ogunnaike for the 'Marie Claire' podcast "Nice Talk."
-
The 30 Best Book-to-Movie Adaptations EverConsider your to-read list and your watch list full.
-
The 25 Best Books About Fashion That Every Style Lover Should ReadFrom nonfiction deep dives about brands to memoirs by style icons.
