LeBron James signs book deal with HarperCollins

Talk about a Renaissance man. LeBron James can now include “children’s book author” to his long list of accomplishments. Inking a two-book deal with publishing giant HarperCollins, LeBron’s first book is set for release later this year.

Titled “I Promise,” the children’s picture book title and content embody the “values and initiatives” of the LeBron James Family Foundation’s I Promise Program. The message of the book is to teach children that “success starts with the promises we make to ourselves and our community today.” LeBron’s second book, which will not be released until 2021, is a middle-grade novel.

As a voracious reader, LeBron knows the power of books to “teach, inspire and bring people together” is an “opportunity to get children and parents reading together,” a value that he says means so much to him. LeBron hopes that all children can see themselves in the storylines of his books.

Even though “I Promise” isn’t slated for release until August 11 of this year, it’s already available for pre-order on Amazon.com. The book is filled with original artwork by Nina Mata, a New York Times bestselling illustrator, whose colorful images promise to represent the diversity of its readers and capture the vibrant message of the book.