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Dolly Parton, renowned worldwide for her musical achievements, has always nurtured a profound passion for reading. Averaging about 50 books a year, her literary tastes span from timeless children’s classics to contemporary romantic tales.
One story, in particular, left a lasting impression on the country music icon during her childhood: The Little Engine That Could. Parton has shared in interviews how her mother’s frequent reading of this beloved tale instilled in her a powerful message of perseverance.
Whenever her dreams felt distant, she would recall the story and repeat the encouraging mantra, “I think I can. I think I can,” which became a source of strength and motivation throughout her journey.
Beyond this cherished childhood story, Parton’s favorite books include a diverse array of novels such as Alexandre Dumas’s swashbuckling The Count of Monte Cristo, Sara Gruen’s captivating circus-themed Water for Elephants, Lee Smith’s Southern Gothic Black Mountain Breakdown, Abi Daré’s coming-of-age The Girl with the Louding Voice, and Ann Napolitano’s poignant survival story Dear Edward.
For Dolly Parton, reading has been more than just a pastime-it has been a wellspring of inspiration and courage that has helped shape her remarkable life and career.