Emma Jarman met Dolly Parton as a newborn; 18 years later, she shares the story
Eighteen-year-old Emma Jarman reflects on her unique childhood connection to Dolly Parton, who was the first to gift her a book through the Imagination Library in 2007. The story resurfaced following the recent passing of the country music icon.
Why it matters
The article illustrates the long-term impact of Parton's literacy initiatives on individual lives and her cultural legacy.
Eighteen-year-old Emma Jarman is reflecting on her extraordinary first encounter with Dolly Parton, which took place when she was just one day old. The teenager from England met the country music legend at Rotherham Hospital in 2007, when Parton visited the UK to launch her Imagination Library literacy initiative.Speaking on Good Morning Britain on Tuesday, September 1, Emma opened up about the surreal encounter and the lasting impact Parton’s initiative had on her childhood. Parton died on August 25 at the age of 80.Emma was the first baby in the UK to receive a book through Parton’s Imagination Library.
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