LeBron James has four MVP titles, three NBA championships and two children’s books.
One of those things is not like the others, but they are all part of James’ world.
Earlier this week, HarperCollins Publishers announced it had signed a two book deal with the LeBron James Foundation. The first, written by James and available for preorder, is titled, "I Promise."
» LeBron James opens I Promise School, offers free uniforms, lunch, bikes and more
"Books have the ability to teach, inspire, and bring people together. That's why these books, and the opportunity to get children and parents reading together, mean so much to me," the father of three said in a news release. "Most importantly, we wanted to make sure these stories are ones that every single kid can see themselves in."
James said the first book is inspired by his foundation’s I Promise program in Akron, Ohio. The LeBron James Family Foundation has invested millions in education resources for children in Akron, including supporting the public I Promise School. The foundation announced earlier this month that the school’s inaugural class — 193 students who are now high school juniors — will receive free tuition to Kent State University.
James' foundation is supported by his business investments, including SpringHill Entertainment, media company Uninterrupted, investments in Beats By Dre and Blaze Pizza, and his health and wellness company Ladder.
"I Promise" will retail for $19.99. You can preorder it at harpercollins.com, or buy it Aug. 11 at Walmart, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million or Amazon.
Featuring James’ “upbeat, rhyming text and vibrant illustrations perfectly crafted for a diverse audience by New York Times bestselling artist Nina Mata, this book has the power to inspire all children and families to be their best,” HarperCollins wrote.
A second book, geared toward middle school students, is planned for 2021.