LeBron James’ commitment to children is a continuous effort.
His latest endeavor is his second children’s book, I Am More Than, which publishes Tuesday. Through James’ words and the art of renowned illustrator Nina Mata, I Am More Than encourages the idea that anybody can be and do what they want.
James shared a message with USA TODAY and on his social media accounts:
“This book furthers my mission,” James says. “It’s right on point with what my mission is, and what our mission is at IPS (I Promise School) and in my community. It’s important for us to continue to have these because these kids that we have, they look up to us. Not only in our hometown of Akron, Ohio, but all over the world. I am an inspiration. I understand that, and I have a huge responsibility on my shoulders and on my back. It’s important for me to continue to spread the positive word to these kids that understand they can become anything that they want.”
This book is a follow-up to his 2020 I Promise children’s book, and in the latest book for children 4-8 years old, James writes, “When they ask me who I am and what it is I do, I say I can do anything because I know it’s true.” That includes arts and sciences with connected illustrations.
It is a similar message that embodies the LeBron James Family Foundation, which aims to create generational changes for kids and families in Akron.
“There’s going to be days that they feel like they can’t make it,” James says. “There’s going to be days where they feel like they were not seen. But I think the inspiration we continue to drive into them and make sure that we – as the adults and the leaders – believe in them, they can achieve anything.”
