Sir Paul McCartney has been keeping himself very busy this year. In addition to plotting his ‘Freshen Up’ Tour; releasing his brand-new solo album, Egypt Station; and the extensive promotional schedule he lined up in support of the new release, the former Beatle found time to write a children’s book.
Paul McCartney’s new children’s book, Hey Grandude!, features illustrations by Kathryn Durst. It is set to hit shelves in September of next year via Puffin Books, the children’s imprint of English publishing house Penguin Books. Hey Grandude! follows an intrepid grandfather and his four young grandkids on a series of fantastic adventures. According to the premise on the Puffin Books website,
With his magical colourful postcards, Grandude whisks his grandchildren off on incredible adventures. Join them as they ride flying fish, dodge stampedes, and escape avalanches… It’s a wild rollercoaster ride with a twist of magic, and a heartwarming family story, inspired by Paul’s own experiences of being a grandfather. Brought to life with funny, colourful illustrations from talented artist Kathryn Durst, this is the perfect picture book for parents, grandparents and their little explorers.
Paul McCartney, who has eight grandchildren of his own and has amusingly noted in the past that they’re not totally sold on his music. To them, he’s not Sir Paul McCartney, music legend. To them, he’s just Grandude.
As McCartney explains in a statement, “I wanted to write it for grandparents everywhere – and the kids – so it gives you something to read to the grandkids at bed time.”
Watch Paul McCartney introduce his upcoming illustrated children’s book, Hey Grandude!, in the announcement video below:
Paul McCartney Picture Book Announcement Video
[Video: Puffin Books]
Paul McCartney’s ‘Freshen Up’ Tour is now off and running. You can check out a full list of upcoming dates here. You can also stream his new album, Egypt Station, below:
Paul McCartney – Egypt Station – Full Album