By Ethen Reed, Jaris Reed Group Productions
What began as a beloved song in 1971, “Grandma’s Hands” by Bill Withers, evolved into a heartwarming story about a young boy and his grandmother. I had the pleasure of attending the book signing for Bill Withers’ children’s book, “Grandma’s Hands,” on April 17 at the Barnes & Noble bookstore on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, NYC.
From the moment I approached the signing table, I was greeted with such warmth and kindness that I immediately felt like part of the family. That’s precisely how I felt when I first opened the book and read it.
Bill Withers’ tribute tells a touching story between a grandmother and her grandchild, emphasizing wisdom, love, care, and compassion—the core message the book conveyed to me. With its colorful illustrations and inspiring words of affirmation and love, this 32-page children’s book beautifully symbolizes Bill Withers’ relationship with his grandmother. I had the wonderful opportunity to meet his daughter Kori and wife, Marcia Withers, as well as Kori’s daughter, Lily. During conversation, I was able to learn how they both are actively continuing to promote Bill Withers’ artistic legacy in various ways in the community.
The event itself drew a diverse crowd of families, longtime fans, and young readers, all eager to connect with the story and its enduring message. Parents flipped through pages with their children, while others reflected on the song that inspired the book, sharing memories of how Bill Withers’ music shaped their lives. The atmosphere felt less like a typical signing and more like a celebration of storytelling, music, and generational connection.
Overall, it was a fantastic event, and I felt honored to meet the family of such a talented and inspiring singer as Bill Withers. I thoroughly enjoyed being a part of it and received a limited edition reissue of colored vinyl record of Bill Withers classic “Just As I Am” as a memorable keepsake. I highly recommend reading this book and sharing it with your children or grandchildren. This story resonated with many and serves as a reminder of the strong bonds we share with our loved ones.
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The song and book perfectly capture specific sensory details—like the smell of soap or the sound of a tambourine—that make it feel personal to every listener.
This seems to be the exact type of event I would have loved to be part of. It places me in the spot the way this story reads. I love Brother Bill, an icon from an era long gone. I’m waiting for the book to come so I can read it with my 4yr old great grandson…t my own tradition going. Thanks for this article.