Lifestyle icon and New York Times best-selling author Joanna Gaines announced her new book today, The World Needs Who You Were Made to Be. In stores this November, this is the second children’s book for the Magnolia designer and mother of five. With kids ranging in age from toddler to teen, Gaines didn’t have to look far for inspiration.
“The idea for this book was inspired by my kids,” Gaines shared on her Magnolia blog. “One of my greatest joys as a mother has been to watch them grow and change and become who they are. And, between the five of them, they are all becoming very different people—in their likes and dislikes, in how they approach situations, in how they solve problems, and simply in how they go about their day today.”
The charming picture book touches on themes of individuality and collaboration and ultimately, acceptance. “This book is more than just a sweet story about a group of kids building their hot air balloons for a big adventure,” Gaines explained. “It’s a declaration for seeing and celebrating the differences in one another. It’s a proclamation for loving the person next to you for who they are as well as loving yourself for who you are. And it’s a reminder that the world needs both you and me.”
Perhaps it is the uncertainty of a world dealing with COVID-19. Or maybe weeks of sheltering in place has forced us to look inward and reevaluate priorities. But Gaines’ message of coming together is now more important than ever.
“I hope that we can throw out any standards that say you should be this way or that way and hold tight to only the standards that require us to take care of each other and be kind to one another, as well as ourselves. Because we’re here right now—on this great adventure together—working it out, each of us bringing our own stories and strengths and personalities to the table. And though it is imperfect and requires lots of learning and unlearning and learning again, I’ve come to realize it’s more beautiful this way. The world is better off when we all lean into who we truly are and fight to uphold the unique goodness in all of us.”
Order your copy of The World Needs Who You Were Made to Be now at your favorite bookseller.
