The Library That Dolly Built
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The Library That Dolly Built
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Library That Dolly Built is a documentary about entertainer Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, a program that sends U.S. and international children books between birth and age 5. The film has virtually no iffy content ("dumb" pops up in song lyrics, and there are images from a wildfire) and positively and enthusiastically highlights Parton's love for children and learning.
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What's the Story?
THE LIBRARY THAT DOLLY BUILT helps make it clear why Dolly Parton is one of the most beloved entertainers in the United States. The film focuses on Parton's Imagination Library, which gives books to kids across the United States and internationally to help support a love of reading and learning. The program has helped kids in the program score higher on standardized tests and perform better in school overall than children who aren't in the program. Parton's personal experiences with her parents, who were both illiterate, are highlighted as her inspiration for making sure all kids can read.
Is It Any Good?
This gentle, sweet documentary is likely to make Parton's many fans love her even more than before. The Library That Dolly Built showcases how Tennessee native Parton's upbringing influenced her decision to create the Imagination Library. The film offers viewers insight into the intersection between Parton's music career and her philanthropy, showing how, for her, giving back comes in many forms.
This is a quick watch, but it gets the job done by driving home the point about Parton's love for children and literacy. If you didn't grow up in or near a city that had an Imagination Library chapter, you'll probably end up wishing you had. Reading can be a special, exciting, fulfilling pastime, and The Library That Dolly Built brings those feelings to life with Parton's brand of effervescent charm.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the importance of reading. How does reading help children learn?
What social positives can be gained from reading regularly? How has the Imagination Library helped promote the positives of reading?
How has Parton helped her Tennessee community in other ways? Do you consider her a role model?
How are children with disabilities supported via the program?
Why is Parton passionate about reading?
Movie Details
- In theaters: September 21, 2020
- On DVD or streaming: July 9, 2021
- Cast: Dolly Parton, Danica McKellar
- Director: Nick Geidner
- Studio: Abramorama
- Genre: Documentary
- Topics: Great Girl Role Models
- Character Strengths: Communication, Compassion, Curiosity, Empathy
- Run time: 90 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: March 31, 2022
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