Dolly Parton performs at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center on March 20, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee. Parton, the country music star who rose from grinding poverty in Tennessee to become a rhinestone-studded cultural icon with hits like "Jolene" and "9 to 5," has died at 80, her family said on August 25, 2026. Parton was more than a singer -- she wrote 3,000 songs, acted in major Hollywood films and donated millions of dollars to charities in her home state and beyond. (Photo by Jason Kempin / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / AFP)

Dolly Parton’s voice has been part of the soundtrack of generations. But beyond the songs, films and performances that made her a global icon, Dolly was also a storyteller, sharing stories of her childhood, family, career, dreams and the experiences that shaped her along the way. A legendary singer, songwriter, actor, author and philanthropist, her remarkable life and legacy have touched generations around the world. Today, these special audiobooks offer a chance to celebrate Dolly through something that feels especially personal: hearing her tell stories in her own unmistakable voice.

Across her audiobooks, Dolly Parton opens up about the moments that shaped her, the songs that defined her career, the people who inspired her and the dreams that carried her from a childhood in the Great Smoky Mountains to global stardom. From deeply personal reflections to stories that showcase her humour, warmth and creativity, these listens offer an intimate way to celebrate the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Dolly Parton - in her own voice.

7 Audiobooks to Remember and Celebrate Dolly Parton’s Extraordinary Life:

1. Dolly Parton, Songteller: My Life in Lyrics by Dolly Parton: What better way to remember Dolly than by hearing her tell the stories behind the songs that made her a legend? Dolly Parton, Songteller: My Life in Lyrics takes listeners through the stories behind 100 of her most iconic songs, with Dolly herself narrating the entire production. Blending personal memories, music and stories from across her life, the audiobook offers an intimate look at the woman behind some of country music’s most enduring songs.

2. Behind the Seams: My Life in Rhinestones by Dolly Parton: Dolly’s rhinestone-covered style was as unmistakable as her voice. Behind the Seams: My Life in Rhinestones offers a closer look at the stories behind her iconic wardrobe and the evolution of her signature style. Co-narrated by Dolly, the audiobook goes beyond the clothes to explore her childhood, career and the personality behind the glamour, offering another perspective on the life of a true original.

3. Star of the Show: My Life on Stage by Dolly Parton: Few artists have spent as many decades commanding the stage as Dolly Parton. Star of the Show: My Life on Stage takes listeners through her extraordinary performing career, from her early days to becoming one of the world's most recognisable entertainers. Co-narrated by Dolly herself, the audiobook offers a first-hand reflection on the stages, performances and experiences that shaped her seven-decade career.

4. Dream More: Celebrate the Dreamer in You by Dolly Parton: Dolly Parton’s legacy has always extended beyond music, with her optimism, ambition and belief in the power of dreams becoming an important part of her story. Dream More: Celebrate the Dreamer in You expands on the ideas from her celebrated commencement address, with Dolly sharing reflections on finding purpose, pursuing dreams and making a difference. Narrated by Dolly herself, it captures the uplifting philosophy that has become synonymous with her.

5. Good Lookin' Cookin' by Dolly Parton and Rachel Parton George: Some of the best stories are the ones shared around the family table. Good Lookin' Cookin' brings Dolly Parton and her sister Rachel together for a warm, personal listen combining recipes, family memories and more than 20 of Dolly’s songs. Co-narrated by the sisters, the audiobook offers a glimpse into Dolly’s roots and the family life that remained an important part of her story despite decades of fame.

6. Run, Rose, Run by James Patterson and Dolly Parton: Dolly’s storytelling extended far beyond her own life. Run, Rose, Run is a thriller co-written by Dolly Parton and James Patterson and narrated by Dolly Parton alongside Kelsea Ballerini, James Fouhey, Kevin T. Collins, Peter Ganim, Soneela Nankani, Ronald Peet, Robert Petkoff, Ella Turenne and Emily Woo Zeller. The story follows a young musician chasing her dreams in Nashville while trying to escape her past. Featuring Dolly as one of the voices in the production, the audiobook showcases another side of her creative legacy - as a storyteller, writer and performer.

And If You Want to Explore the Stories Behind the Legend

1. Ain't Nobody's Fool: The Life and Times of Dolly Parton by Martha Ackmann: For listeners looking to explore Dolly’s impact through another perspective, Ain't Nobody's Fool offers a detailed biography of the woman behind the legend. Written by Martha Ackmann and narrated by Hannah Church, the audiobook looks at Dolly’s life, career and cultural influence, placing her extraordinary journey within the broader story of America and its changing music landscape.

2. Dolly Parton's America: For a deeper exploration of Dolly’s cultural legacy, this acclaimed audio documentary podcast, hosted by Jad Abumrad, takes listeners on a journey through the many sides of her life, music and influence. Featuring interviews, music and stories, the series explores why Dolly’s voice, personality and worldview have resonated across generations, looking beyond the entertainer to understand the cultural phenomenon she became.

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