Taraji P. Henson's Best-Selling Debut Children's Book Encourages Kids to be Better Friends by Embracing Their Differences

Less than 10 days after the debut of her first children’s book, Taraji P. Henson has not just landed on The New York Times Bestsellers list, but risen to No. 1 on the “Children’s Picture Books” chart.

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You Can Be a Good Friend (No Matter What!) , released on June 18, blends Henson’s story-telling skills with her passion for mental health advocacy. The award-winning actress aims to discourage bullying through lessons taught in the book. The story, which follows Lil TJ on her first day of school, encourages kids to be better friends by embracing their differences rather than finding faults in the things that make people unique.

Lil TJ is excited to start school — until she gets there and discovers she does things differently than her classmates. Beau, a fellow student, begins making fun of Lil TJ, which makes her feel anxious and unsure of herself. However, when she remembers important words of wisdom shared by her Grandma Patsy, Lil TJ embraces her differences and helps herself — and someone else — make new friends.

You Can Be a Good Friend (No Matter What!): A Lil TJ Book

The Hidden Figures star has long been an advocate for mental health, establishing her own foundation in 2018 to bring mental health initiatives to under-resourced areas around the country. In a press release for her best-seller debut, Henson said, “Mental health struggles can start even in childhood and oftentimes it begins with being bullied. This book isn’t just about bullying though — it’s about how children all have something different about them, and being different is what makes them oh so very special.”

The Color Purple actress added, “ You Can Be a Good Friend (No Matter What!) is for the kids who feel different. This book is for the parents who want their kids to accept differences. And this book is for the kids and families who’ve encountered hard times because of differences.” She gushed, “I can’t wait to see the many conversations my book starts in homes and classrooms everywhere!”

You Can Be a Good Friend (No Matter What!) is a fantastic story for kids as they prepare to head back to school in a few weeks — grab a copy for your kiddo, local library, or a favorite teacher here .

Before you go, check out these celebrity parents who have defended their kids against bullies .