Amanda Gorman, the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history, has released her new children’s book, ‘Girls on the Rise,’ celebrating the strength and achievements of young girls. The book, illustrated by Loveis Wise, is based on Gorman’s 2021 poem ‘We Rise’ and aims to inspire children to embrace their power to change the world.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Gorman shared her vision for the book. ‘I really wanted to focus on the idea of us being stronger when we stand in solidarity,’ she said. ‘That’s a message that I think is particularly relevant to young girls, but I think it also transcends them as well.’
The book, published by Penguin Young Readers, features text that accompanies Wise’s illustrations, emphasizing the beauty of girls ‘not for how they look but for how they look into the face of fear.’ Gorman hopes the book will resonate with readers of all ages, including boys and non-binary children, fostering a sense of allyship across gendered lines.
Gorman, who became a household name after her powerful performance of ‘The Hill We Climb‘ at President Joe Biden‘s inauguration, has since co-chaired the Met Gala, been nominated for a Grammy Award, and established the ‘Writing Change‘ initiative to support literacy as a pathway to social change. ‘Girls on the Rise’ is her third children’s book, following her efforts to inspire the next generation through literature.
Reflecting on her creative process, Gorman emphasized the importance of reading and writing. ‘Read as much as possible. Read what you don’t like, read what you do. Write as much as possible,’ she advised aspiring writers. She also highlighted the value of finding kinship and allyship within the writing community, describing it as a pivotal asset for creators.
‘Girls on the Rise’ is now available wherever books are sold, offering a heartfelt and complex story that speaks to multiple generations and backgrounds.
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