Finding Her Julie Andrews Again Through Children’s Books
Dame Julie Andrews is known worldwide for her iconic roles in classic films like Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music. But after losing her singing voice, she found a new creative outlet – writing children’s books.
Over the past three decades, Andrews has co-authored 35 books for young readers along with her daughter Emma Walton Hamilton. Their latest story “Waiting in the Wings” tells of a pair of theatrical ducks who sneak into a play. Through her books, Andrews has been able to share her love of storytelling and keep the spirit of her famous characters alive for new generations.
A New Voice Through Writing
It was after a botched surgery in the late 1980s that Andrews lost her soprano voice. Devastated at first to no longer be able to sing, her daughter told her “you’ve just found another way of sharing your Julie Andrews.” Taking those words to heart, Andrews began collaborating with Hamilton on children’s literature. Their uplifting tales allow Andrews to impart life lessons of optimism and empowerment to young readers.
Their 35th book follows in the tradition of their previous works. With Mr. Puddle Duck as the curious protagonist, it highlights themes of imagination and performance that were so important to Andrews’ own career. Even after decades, she remains grateful for the opportunities that allowed her to discover her talents. By writing, Andrews continues entertaining audiences with the same warmth and charm that made her an icon on both stage and screen.
