Don McLean Talks New Children’s Book, ‘American Pie: A Fable’

Don McLean called into the Dwyer & Michaels show to talk about his current tour and upcoming children's book, based on the hit he released in 1971.

Inspired by childhood memories of the singer/songwriter of the iconic anthem, “American Pie,” Don McLean’s American Pie: A Fable was brought to life as a children’s book by the creative team at Meteor 17, a full-service media organization that actively conceives and participates through all phases of deal-making, production, marketing, and distribution.

The book is based on McLean's American Pie, which has been named one of the top five songs of the century, and selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress, was released 51 years ago, in 1971.

The book follows a lonely paperboy, with moments of McLean's own childhood woven into the story.

Don McLean’s American Pie: A Fable weaves elements and themes from the classic song with experiences from the singer-songwriter's own early years into a stunningly visual and uplifting tale for all ages. This fable reveals the emotional journey of a newspaper delivery boy in the late 1950s who discovers the joy of friendship and music, eventually learning that when you recognize what truly makes you happy, you're never really alone.

American Pie: A Fable releases on June 7th, 2022, and is available for pre-order where books are sold, like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Books-A-Million. 

Check out the full conversation with Don below.

He also told us the story behind the album cover of American Pie, and how his thumb being in the photo was to help gauge the distance between the camera and his face.