I PROMISE, the Slam Dunk New Picture Book from Cultural Icon LeBron James
“I promise to be courageous,
to be free,
to strive for greatness,
to be me.”
Every parent (and grandparent!) wants to make sure the young ones in their family live up to their highest potential and always strive for greatness. Sometimes conveying that message is as easy as saying, “Do your best!” Other times, it may be harder to instill that sensibility, especially when obstacles stand in the way.
LeBron James understands one of the easiest ways to inspire children is to lead by example. In his debut picture book, I Promise, the three-time NBA champion encourages every kid to be their own biggest motivator and reminds us tomorrow’s success starts with the promises we make to ourselves and our community, today. Dedicated to uplifting youth everywhere, James offers the key building blocks to a better future: excel in school, do your best, and keep your family close.
“I promise to go to school
and read as much as I can,
to follow the rules
and respect the game plan.”
Perfect for shared reading in and out of the classroom, I Promise espouses an ethos of not only taking responsibility for oneself but also of being a team player. It emphasizes the importance of the classroom as the center of learning and community while also encouraging readers to view the wider world as a source of education. The book celebrates the asking of questions and encourages young readers to share the lessons they’ve learned with their peers and grown-ups in their lives.
“I promise to ask for help
whenever I need it.
To reach for my star, even
when I can’t see it.”
I Promise will inspire children to ask questions and seek the answers; to find their voice and use it to stand up for what’s right. Providing children with guidance isn’t simply about presenting them with a hard and fast road-map, it’s about teaching them to recognize the path that’s right for them. As James writes in the book’s postscript, “Setting goals, working hard, and holding yourself accountable are the first steps to success.”
In I Promise, not only will readers find an upbeat and encouraging text from LeBron James, but also vibrant art from bestselling illustrator, Nina Mata. Each spread bursts with color, showcasing diverse characters in a myriad of settings—classrooms, basketball courts, playgrounds, and schoolyards. From page to page, I Promise has the power to inspire every child to do their best.
“I promise to use my voice
and stand up for what’s right.
And when things get tough,
to keep up the fight.”
I Promise is on sale on August 11th and available wherever books are sold. Click here for more information. Please also visit The LeBron James Family Foundation to learn more.
I PROMISE is the perfect BACK-TO-SCHOOL gift for students and teachers who need an encouraging boost to start the year!
Buy book here
