Coat of Many Colors

Written by Dolly Parton · Illustrated by Brooke Boynton Hughes

A young boy's mother makes him a coat from rags, which he wears to school despite the other children's teasing.

4.5/7 Bookroo experts·4.4/5 Goodreads · 1,643 ratings

32 pages· 328 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud· AD520L

$19.99Save 5%

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Bookroo's summary

In the Smoky Mountains, a young girl needs a winter coat. Her mother sews one from rags, sparking classmates' taunts. Yet, she discovers the true value of love stitched into every piece. Will she embrace the coat's deeper meaning and rise above the mockery? This touching tale, inspired by Dolly Parton's song, weaves a story of resilience and warmth.

From the publisher

Dolly Parton lends the lyrics of her classic song “Coat of Many Colors” to this heartfelt picture book for young readers.

Country music legend Dolly Parton’s rural upbringing in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee provides the backdrop for this special picture book. Using lyrics from her classic song “Coat of Many Colors,” the book tells the story of a young girl in need of a warm winter coat. When her mother sews her a coat made of rags, the girl is mocked by classmates for being poor. But Parton’s trademark positivity carries through to the end as the girl realizes that her coat was made with love “in every stitch.” Beautiful illustrations pair with Parton’s poetic lyrics in this heartfelt picture book sure to speak to all young readers.

At a glance

Format
Pages: 32
Words: 328
Reading age: 0–99
Audience: Picture
Lexile: AD520L

Themes & topics

Books about music Books about love Books about bullying Books about self-esteem Books about self-esteem and self-reliance

What readers & critics say

Reviews

4.5

out of 7

4.5

“This is a cute little story of a little girl that feels she has all she needs even though she knows her family doesn't have a lot of money. She feels the love her mother has for her in the coat that was made of rags. This story mentions the bible and the story of Joseph and his coat of many colors.”

Mom of Boys

Trusted reviewer

The author