The latest in a long string of celebrities to write children's books when the going gets tough, Barack Obama has joined the ranks of children's authors with his book, Of thee I Sing.
Bookstores across the world are filled with celebrity offerings and Obama is not the first celebrity to turn to writing children's books when they have been perceived less than favourably in the press. Though admittedly, he is the first president to aim his work at children.
Well-known names such as Madonna (who released her first of six children's books, The English Roses, back in 2003) and Sarah Ferguson (who has released a string of books throughout her many periods of disgrace) have jumped on the bandwagon.
It is thought that these celebrities (including former First-Lady, Hilary Clinton) believe that by showing their softer, compassionate side, will regain the public's trust and respect after falling from grace. Take Jordan, a.k.a Katie Price, for example - after a string of allegations and accusations in the press, Jordan released her sparkly pink offering, My Pony Care book.
Obama has provided himself some saving grace, in the form of all his proceeds going to charity. All money gained from sales of the publication will benefit the Fisher House Foundation, a charity dedicated to the children of soldiers wounded or killed in battle, and Obama is not giving any interviews in relation to the release.
Other cynics have also attributed the celebrities' enthusiasm to the success achieved by the phenomenally popular Harry Potter books, which made JK Rowling both a celebrity and a millionaire.
Despite the fact that many cynics see celebrities' writing ambitions as a money-making enterprise, it can be argued that it doesn't matter who's written the books; if children are more inclined to sit down and read just because their favourite celebrity is attached to the novel, where is the harm?
By reading more, children widen their vocabulary and advance their development. This outcome is positive even if the books themselves may ultimately be a cynical attempt at making cash and creating publicity.
Louis Sharman is a freelance author writes article on various topics. To learn more about various bookstores and Online Bookshops he recommends you to visit http://www.foyles.co.uk/
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