Julie Andrews Celebrates 90th Birthday With New Book Release and Family Collaboration

Legendary actress Julie Andrews is marking a major milestone. The celebrated star of Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music turned 90 on October 1. She is celebrating by re-releasing a beloved children’s book with her family.

This project highlights her decades-long writing partnership with her daughter, Emma Walton Hamilton. According to People, the duo has co-authored an impressive 30 books over the past 25 years. Their collaboration is a central part of Andrews’ creative life.

A Creative Outlet and a Lasting Legacy

Andrews and Hamilton have reissued their 2010 book, The Great American Mousical. The new edition features illustrations by Andrews’ ex-husband, Tony Walton. This makes the project a true family affair.

The story follows a troupe of theater-loving mice. Andrews first had the idea while performing in Victor/Victoria on Broadway in the 1990s. A hairdresser mentioned mice living beneath the stage, sparking her imagination. She immediately knew it was a story she had to write with her daughter.

Overcoming Adversity with a New Passion

Writing became a vital creative outlet for Andrews after throat surgery in 1997. The procedure sadly ended her singing career. She told Forbes that channeling her energy into books with her daughter was “reviving.”

She considers herself incredibly fortunate. Andrews credits her long career to “great, good fortune and then a lot of hard work.” Her work with Hamilton now focuses on inspiring a new generation. They hope their stories make children curious about live theater.

The reissued The Great American Mousical represents more than just a book for Julie Andrews. It is a testament to her resilience, her family bonds, and her enduring dedication to the arts. This new release continues her incredible legacy of Julie Andrews books for years to come.

Thought you’d like to know-

How many books has Julie Andrews written with her daughter?

Julie Andrews and Emma Walton Hamilton have written 30 books together. Their writing partnership has spanned 25 years. This collaboration is a major part of their relationship.

What is “The Great American Mousical” about?

The book tells the story of a troupe of mice who love theater. They live beneath a stage and put on their own productions. It is designed to inspire a love for the performing arts in children.

Why did Julie Andrews start writing books?

She turned to writing more intensely after a 1997 throat surgery. The surgery prevented her from singing professionally. Writing provided a new and joyful creative outlet for her.

Who illustrated the new edition of the book?

The new edition is illustrated by Tony Walton. He is Andrews’ ex-husband and a famed production and costume designer. This makes the project a full family collaboration.

What was the inspiration behind the mouse story?

Andrews got the idea while performing in a Broadway show. A hairdresser told her about mice living under the stage. She imagined they were there to watch the stars and put on their own shows.