The Faith of Dolly Parton: Lessons from Her Life to Lift Your Heart

by Dudley J. Delffs

Dolly Parton has entertained, educated, and inspired millions of fans for over five decades. Whether she's writing songs, performing live, recording new albums, or helping children around the world learn to read with her Imagination Library nonprofit, the Queen of Country Music has never been shy about crediting her Christian faith for her success. Tennessee native, lifelong Dolly fan, and award-winning writer Dudley Delffs spotlights ten faith lessons as evidenced in Dolly's life, music, interviews, and attitude, giving you the tools you need Sometimes poignant, sometimes funny, frequently surprising, and always true to Dolly's down-home spirit of joyful generosity, The Faith of Dolly Parton will delight her millions of fans as well as anyone seeking a fresh, faith-filled role model. Praise for The Faith of Dolly Parton : "Dudley's book gives great insight into why so many people around the world love Dolly Parton. While Dolly is one of the biggest superstars, she has never forgotten who she is and where she came from and the faith that anchors her life." --Bill Haslam, former governor of Tennessee "You may know Dolly Parton as a legendary singer, songwriter, music producer, actor, author, philanthropist, or entrepreneur. But those external successes are born out of a deep personal faith in Jesus Christ. In The Faith of Dolly Parton , award-winning author Dudley Delffs guides you through ten powerful lessons based on the music, character, and heart of this entertainment legend. Delffs's insight into the sincere faith of Dolly Parton will warm your heart and inspire you to become more vulnerable as you grow stronger in your faith." --Craig Groeschel, pastor of Life.Church and New York Times bestselling author

Genres: Biography, Nonfiction, Religion

240 pages, Hardcover

Published June 12, 2018

About the author

Dudley J. Delffs, Ph.D. is an award-winning writer of fiction and non-fiction. A former publishing executive with divisions of Random House and HarperCollins, Dudley now works with top-tier authors, agents, and publishers to produce bestselling books with life-changing impact. A lifelong fan of Dolly Parton, Dudley lives in Sewanee, Tennessee with his wife and children.

Reviews

[Katie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I felt that the author should not have talked so much about his faith. I felt that he should have kept to the title of the book and paid more attention to Dolly’s faith.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Faith of Dolly Parton is a wonderful book that imparts ten life lessons that draw from her life, music and the way she carries herself. The words of Dudley Delffs highlight personal, yet practical examples on how we can trust God during difficult seasons, remain faithful in our walk with steadiness and also find our sense of humor in the midst of trials. This book digs deep into the faith of Dolly Parton and her relationship with the Lord, which I never really understood was so strong.
Personally, I did not know much about Dolly Parton until reading this book. I did not realize how strong of a believer she is or how her faith has kept her grounded in her music accomplishments. Her story of faith inspired me to grow in mine and to continue to push my dreams further. This book written by Dudley Delffs is a one that I felt is inspiring, beautiful and a great tribute to the character of Dolly Parton. I also believe it reminds us how God uses each person in the Kingdom of God no matter how great or small their talents are. We are all to be used to advance His Kingdom, if we allow Him to use us. Thank you to Wynn Wynn Media for providing a complimentary copy of this book. A review was not required for a complimentary copy. I give this book 4.5/ 5 stars. Thank you to the publisher for sending me a complimentary copy.

[W. Whalin · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Engaging Read

As Dr. Dudley Delffs tells readers in THE FAITH OF DOLLY PARTON, this superstar has lived in the public eye for six decades. This book is a well-written look at the lessons each reader can learn from her life.

Early in the book, Delffs writes, “No doubt about it, Dilly’s gentle, determined way of living out her faith has pollinated so many people’s lives, including my own, with joy, inspiration, and hope. She has become known for her compassion, generosity, inclusivity, and philanthropy as much as for her voice, musical artistry, and famous figure. The positive impact of her music, personality, storytelling, songwriting, and generosity is undeniable. She makes me proud to be from Tennessee, to love country music, and to be a Christian.” (Page 10-11)

Each chapter focuses on a different key quality from Dolly Parton’s life. These chapters conclude with a section called “Divine Dose of Dolly which include a Bible verse, thoughtful questions for the reader, some action items for the reader then a short prayer.

I loved reading this book cover to cover. I highly recommend THE FAITH OF DOLLY PARTON.

[Maryann · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this novel by Dudley Delffs. I can, however, state that I feel as if the title of the novel is a bit misleading. The author has not met Dolly Parton and all of his information is done through research. I feel that the spiritual faith of a person is very private. This author should have used a different title in order to clearly write this novel. I did enjoy his insights not only into his faith, but that of Dolly Parton. Dudley's writing style is very interesting and easy to read. In this day and age it is very inspiring to see an author so dedicated to his faith.

[Eric Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautifully rendered book, with overviews of Dolly's childhood, career, and relationships. It is uplifting, challenging, and full of the love, acceptance, and perseverance which have characterized Dolly's life. It is told against the Tennessee backdrop of the author's own life, making it personal and relatable. My wife and I both loved the book.

[Yvie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dolly Parton has entertained, educated, and inspired millions of fans for over five decades. Whether she’s writing songs, performing live, recording new albums, acting in or producing new movies and TV programs, expanding her wildly successful Dollywood amusement park, helping children around the world learn to read with her Imagination Library nonprofit, or donating millions of dollars to schools, charities, and people in need, the Queen of Country Music has never been shy about crediting her Christian faith for her success. “A belief in God is essential,” Dolly shares. “You have to believe in something bigger than yourself. We grew up believing that through God all things are possible.” Growing up in the little mountain church where her grandfather preached, Dolly started singing hymns and playing guitar at services when she was only six. Consequently, she has never been shy about discussing her faith and relationship with God. “People say, ‘Well, I am surprised that you talk about your faith,’ and I say, ‘Why not? That’s who I am. That’s what keeps me going,’” she explains. Tennessee native, Dolly fanboy, and award-winning writer Dudley Delffs now spotlights ten faith lessons as evidenced in Dolly’s life, music, interviews, and attitude. The Faith of Dolly Parton focuses on the ways Dolly’s life can inspire us all to be more authentic, to trust God during hard times, to stay grounded during the good times, and to always keep our sense of humor. Sometimes poignant, sometimes funny, frequently surprising, and always true to Dolly’s down-home spirit of joyful generosity, this book will delight her millions of fans as well as anyone seeking a fresh faith-filled role model.

Staying true to the personality of Dolly herself, this book focuses on ten lessons that she's drawn from her life. I knew about her music, but did not know much about Dolly, the person, until reading this book. Her story is one of hardship, faith, and overcoming through her strength in character. I love the song 'Coat of Many Colors,' but didn't realize how much it drew from her own background! She keeps a sense of humor through it all, and imparts us with her wisdom to keep on keeping on...bringing our own unique talents to serve others and the Lord. For any fan of Dolly Parton, this is a must-read!

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Faith of Dolly Parton: Lessons from her life to uplift your heart by Dudley Delffs is an inspirational read. It delves into Dolly’s life and shares lessons from her experiences. I was surprised to find out just how much Dolly’s music is influenced by her life. One of the first stories shared is about Dolly’s humble beginnings. Her Coat of Many Colours was inspired by an incident that occurred during this period of her life. This song is beautiful and knowing that it was inspired by actual events makes it even more special.

Through each chapter, the author shares a lesson from Dolly’s life. He then relates it to his own life and in some chapters; he shares his personal experiences. The lessons are diverse and applicable to all of us. One that I really liked was on getting out of our comfort zones. In this chapter, the author shared his own experience and also Dolly’s about making risky moves to follow dreams. He challenges readers to consider their own situation and this is what I did. I don’t know if I would leave my job right now to follow my dreams though. I know I would be ten times happier if I did but it is still scary. It was still nice to get some inspiration from Dolly and Dudley concerning this matter.

Each chapter ends with a lesson, a song, scripture and prayer. I really liked this book and thought it was very well-written, inspiring and relatable. Although it has a number of Christian teachings, it also has life lessons that I believe anyone can apply in their lives. Dreams, ambition, courage, love do apply to all humans, right? What a beautiful read!

[Lissa00 · Rating 3 out of 5]

The author grew up in the same Eastern Tennessee region as Dolly Parton and felt a kinship to the entertainer. In this short book he details aspects of Dolly's life in which her faith played a large part and then took those lessons and applied it to his own life. This is a perfectly pleasant book and I love Dolly Parton so I definitely enjoyed reading it. His praise of the singer becomes quite repetitive after a while, which is noticeable in this short of a book, but overall there were enough good tidbits to keep me reading. I received a digital ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Dixie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This presented a nice look at the principles that have guided Dolly's decisions throughout her life. It's easy to look at a glitzy public figure and see only the opportunities; this volume presented the inner sparkle that saw Dolly through many difficult times. It is entertaining and enlightening, not preachy.
I voluntarily read an advanced review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley and I offer my honest opinion in response.

[Cassandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy.

Sweet caring and easy to get to know, this author shares a great look into the depths of Dolly and combines her faith with stories that uplift the reader. I enjoyed the chapters as they flew by and the love that Dolly shares through most everything she does. I would recommend this book not only to superfans, but also to older ages that love faith based material.

[Rindi Trainer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book and the ways that the author ties together Dolly’s story with his own. The insight into the role faith has played in Dolly’s life was also very encouraging. Highly recommend this one, especially if you are in need of encouragement. :-)

[Judy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Everybody loves Dolly Parton. This is a lightweight biography, but enjoyable all the same. It is also a kind of study guide which encourages listening to the songs she has written. Her faith in God and giving back through charitable work, especially the Imagination Library project, has carried her through a long and successful life and career.

[Ash Luna · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Faith of Dolly Parton is quite the inspirational read. I already adore Dolly, but after reading this I love her so much more and see her in somewhat of a different light. Her faith is such a beautiful part of her and I think that is why so many people love her not only for her songs, and acting. They love her for who she is! Would recommend to any Dolly Parton fan!

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Faith of Dolly Parton by Dudley Delffs
I am such a big fan of Ms. Parton that I had to have this book. It did not disappoint at all...I love everything Dolly so this was a great inspirational book.

[Cristie Underwood]

This was an interesting book about the importance of faith to an icon via ten faith lessons with examples from Dolly’s life. The author captured the essence of Dolly’s personality.

[ChristineK]

The Faith of Dolly Parton is a pleasant and positive book, about the writer himself as well as Dolly Parton.

[Lesa · Rating 2 out of 5]

This man didn’t meet Dolly Parton. This is excerpts of her interviews and books not really her outlook on faith.

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Faith of Dolly Parton: Lessons from Her Life to Lift Your Heart by Dudley J. Delffs
Dolly Parton has entertained, educated, and inspired millions of fans for over five decades. Whether she’s writing songs, performing live, recording new albums, acting in or producing new movies and TV programs, expanding her wildly successful Dollywood amusement park, helping children around the world learn to read with her Imagination Library nonprofit, or donating millions of dollars to schools, charities, and people in need, the Queen of Country Music has never been shy about crediting her Christian faith for her success.
“A belief in God is essential,” Dolly shares. “You have to believe in something bigger than yourself. We grew up believing that through God all things are possible.” Growing up in the little mountain church where her grandfather preached, Dolly started singing hymns and playing guitar at services when she was only six. Consequently, she has never been shy about discussing her faith and relationship with God. “People say, ‘Well, I am surprised that you talk about your faith,’ and I say, ‘Why not? That’s who I am. That’s what keeps me going,’” she explains.
Tennessee native, Dolly fanboy, and award-winning writer Dudley Delffs now spotlights ten faith lessons as evidenced in Dolly’s life, music, interviews, and attitude. The Faith of Dolly Partonfocuses on the ways Dolly’s life can inspire us all to be more authentic, to trust God during hard times, to stay grounded during the good times, and to always keep our sense of humor. Sometimes poignant, sometimes funny, frequently surprising, and always true to Dolly’s down-home spirit of joyful generosity, this book will delight her millions of fans as well as anyone seeking a fresh faith-filled role model. – from the publisher.
The book includes not only Dudley Delffs’ research about Dolly’s life, it includes questions at the end with point to the ten faith lessons that Mr. Delff believes Dolly in bodies. He also includes and encourages the reader to listen to a variety of Dolly’s songs and read the lyrics to in his opinion, get a better understanding of the ten faith lessons. Reader’s who read the title and do not go any further into reading the book’s marketing will be disappointed.
Most readers who are looking to learn about Dolly Parton’s faith will not hear it from her but from Mr. Deliff’s perspective and research. Mr. Deliff reveals much about his life and compares it to many things he points out about Dolly’s life. Those looking for a book about faith lessons and how a person’s faith can be similar to a famous person will find this title informative. Those readers looking to learn more about Dolly’s faith from her will be disappointed.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy as part of the BookLook Bloggers Program. I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

[Julie D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very inspiring book and, as a Dolly Parton fan, I really enjoyed getting to know more about her.

The book starts at her beginning, in her childhood where we learn more about the people that encouraged and inspired her. She had a lot of great Christian people in her life that deepened her faith in God and gave her the strength and confidence to pursue her love of music.

I was extremely surprised by how her relationship with Porter Wagoner ended so horribly and give her so much credit for how she handled the situation. It really spoke of her faith and rising above a very difficult situation.

My favorite part of this book is learning about her faith, though. She has made this the center of her life and it has guided her in her career as well as her private life. I have always thought she stayed the same throughout her career, as a person, and I believe it's because she knew she wasn't bigger than God.

I absolutely love the questions at the end of each chapter and I did do each set of questions. I loved how they encouraged me to follow my own dreams and to deepen my own faith. I feel like the author really helped me to get into my own heart and figure out exactly how to pursue my own dreams. I also really loved the prayers at the end of each chapter. They are a great spring board to my own prayers concerning what God wants me to do in this life.

I really loved getting to know Miss Dolly and more about her faith! She is such an inspiration! I highly recommend this book, especially if you're a Dolly Parton fan. I also recommend it to anyone who wants to pursue their creative dreams. It's just a really great book. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.

*This book was provided to me for my honest review by BookLook Bloggers program

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Faith of Dolly Parton: Lessons from Her Life to Lift Your Heart was a step outside my comfort zone, genre-wise. If you follow me here on Goodreads, you know I usually read thrillers, mysteries, and various types of middle grade fiction. I usually do not read biographies, religious books, or self help books. This book was all three of those. With that in mind, I largely enjoyed this uplifting deviation from my norm.

I really love Dolly Parton and I’m a Christian myself so I was excited to read this book that combined those two interests. The way this book was written was a bit unexpected, but I ended up enjoying it. Author Dudley J. Delffs uses research about Dolly’s life, quotes from Dolly’s interviews, and personal anecdotes from his own life to deliver 10 life lessons along with questions for the readers to ask themselves and short prayers. There was a lot more of the author’s life story in this book than I was expecting, but I didn’t mind because his stories were interesting and served his points well. I learned a lot about Dolly’s life and faith that I did not already know and I thought about my own life and my own faith. This was definitely a different read for me, but it was quick, I learned new things, and I’m glad I picked it up.

**read as an audiobook**

[Teresa Breeding · Rating 1 out of 5]

I'm not one to leave bad reviews but this one gets 1 Star.
First of all, the title and the back cover are very misleading and I believe intentionally so. The author has never even met Dolly Parton. The book is written like a high school essay assignment. The author compares and contrasts his life to the life of Dolly Parton and makes bible verses and faith based applications fit wherever possible. He shares boring page after page about his own life and compares it to Dolly's. He even frequently asks himself "What would Dolly do?" It's obvious that he worships her.

As a Tennessee native, I really like and admire Dolly Parton and already had some knowledge of her life and endeavors. Most of what he shared was common knowledge in this part of the country- humble beginnings, Porter Wagner, Dollywood, the Imagination Library... none of his information came from first hand knowledge because, as I said before, the author has never met Dolly and likely never will. If I were her, I'd be leary.

Btw: If you're wondering why I even finished the book - I pushed through because I wouldn't feel right leaving this kind of review without reading the entire book.

[Leslie McKee · Rating 3 out of 5]

This quick read gives an overview of Dolly’s life, starting with her humble beginnings, and how her faith has been a significant part of her journey. The author doesn’t know Dolly, but he “grew up” with her, and his research about and admiration for Dolly is apparent.

The book is broken into ten chapters, each focusing on one lesson the author has drawn from Dolly’s life and music. Each chapter begins with a quote from Dolly and ends with a section entitled “Divine Dose of Dolly.” In this final wrap-up section, the author includes a Bible verse (Note: These are included throughout the chapters, as well.) and some questions for reflection based on the chapter.

You can read the rest of my review on my blog: https://lmckeeediting.blogspot.com/20...

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy as part of the BookLook Bloggers Program. I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great summer read. I love this book! A sincere thank you to Dudley for sharing his golden insights with us. First of all, it's so beautiful to read about his spectacular relationship with our amazing Dolly. I have come to learn that she truly is 'the real deal.' Especially when it comes to a deeply hard and challenging area of forgiveness. Wow, a must-read for understanding the depth of emotion in Dolly crafting the words and melody to a favorite song of mine, "I Will Always Love You." You'll find inspiring scriptures and wonderful thought-provoking questions for self-growth. The photos are fun to see, reflecting on Dolly's personality and performances. All in all, I really enjoyed learning of Dolly's childhood, her roots in her faith in Jesus, and she continues a legacy in following Christ!

[Misty Grim · Rating 3 out of 5]

I grew up in Tennessee and I adore Dolly, but to me this book went beyond, to me Dudley seems obsessive in his book, he goes on and on...
I read half the book and I couldn't finish it!

Like I said before I grew up in Tennessee and raised on Dolly's music. I'm not trying to be mean and give a bad review, because I really don't like to, but this was not the book for me.

At the end of each chapter the author does put in bible verses and activities to do he calls them "Devine Doses of Dolly".

On the plus side, the book does tell of Dolly's upbringing and her music career and does have awesome pictures!

[Liz Sergent · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Written by Mr. Delff, he parallel stories in his life with Dolly's life and beliefs. Just when I thought I couldn't love Dolly Parton anymore, this book sealed it. Discussing Dolly's childhood, her partnership with Porter Wagner and her courtship and secret marriage to husband Carl at the age of 20 (against music producers advice). The author talked about Dollywood and taking risks in life. Great read!

[Blanche · Rating 3 out of 5]

Audio Book, I have to say that it is more my fault than the authors for my rating of 3. I should have read a few reviews be fore I read it as this book was not what I was expecting. I was disappointed to heat that the narration was not done by Dolly but by someone both the author and narrator had never met. A small interesting book but not what I was looking for....

[Heidi Vertrees · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an outstanding book to fill us with joy and hope, beautifully presented by important facets of wonderful Dolly Parton, and poignant soul-searching shares by the author, along with good challenges to the readers. There is so much generosity of spirit in this book, and so it is a blessing to read! Thank you!!!

[Trina Bagley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have to admit the title is a little misleading. The content of the book is about the author's faith and things he's read and heard about Dolly. I won't doubt that he's a big fan of Dolly's, but he has never met her.
I do appreciate him sharing his history and thoughts on faith and feel it was very well-written. But the information about Dolly is actually from her own books.

[Corey · Rating 5 out of 5]

That was so sweet. I love Dolly, she's a wonderful human being. Most recently she stepped up to help out when the Federal government fell on it's face showing the depth of its ineptitude. These are stories from her life and career that express her faith and have also blessed the author to express his own faith.

[Nancy Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very uplifiting and inspiring gem of a book! Every chapter was like a life affirmation. So many positive thoughts throughout. I read it real slow - savoring and dwelling on each chapter. A real treasure of a book.