Children’s book by Taraji P. Henson named New York Times bestseller

Less than 10 days after the debut of her first children’s book, Taraji P. Henson is not only on The New York Times Bestsellers list, but rose to number 1 in the “Children’s Picture Books” charts.

You can be a good friend (no matter what!)released June 18, combines Henson’s storytelling skills with her passion for promoting mental health. The award-winning actress aims to prevent bullying through the 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 fault in the things that make people unique.

Lil TJ is excited to start school – until she gets there and realizes she does things differently than her classmates. Beau, a classmate, starts making fun of Lil TJ, which makes her nervous and insecure. But when she remembers important words of wisdom from her grandmother Patsy, Lil TJ accepts her differences and helps herself – and someone else – make new friends.

The Unrecognized heroes star has long been an advocate for mental health, and in 2018 she launched her own foundation to bring mental health initiatives to underserved areas across the country. In a press release about her bestselling debut, Henson said, “Mental health issues can begin as early as childhood, and often they start with bullying. But this book isn’t just about bullying—it’s about how children all have something special about them, and this difference makes them very special.”