Parker Curry first captured America’s attention when she stood mesmerized in front of Amy Sherald’s astonishing portrait of former first lady Michelle Obama. Now, Parker and her mom are telling her story with their new children’s book, Parker Looks Up.
ESSENCE is sharing the first look of Parker’s new book, which she co-wrote with her mom Jessica Curry. The elder Curry hopes the upcoming title will be an “inspiration” to other children.
“Before Parker stood face-to-face with Amy Sherald’s portrait of first lady Michelle Obama, I believe she was unaware of the impact and significance that her ‘little moment’ would have on our life and the lives of people around the world,” Curry told ESSENCE exclusively.
“I was excited and hopeful that she would experience some degree of the admiration and inspiration that I knew would stir inside of me seeing a portrait of such an accomplished, dynamic, and regal woman,” she added.
Undoubtedly, Parker’s viral visit shows the importance of Black art and the way it can capture a child’s attention. Not to mention, seeing Michelle Obama’s portrait at the National Portrait Gallery is certainly an awe-inspiring moment.
“Parker’s every day moment became an extraordinary one, and my sincerest hope is that our book will continue to resonate that moment’s power and promise, its hopes and dreams, its inspiration and indelible impact with Parker, her generation, and generations to follow,” Curry said. “After all, with their inner and profound insight and wisdom, our children are truly our future.”
You can pre-order Parker Looks Up for you or your little one before it hits bookshelves on October 15 here.