Victoria Monét Says Writing Her Debut Picture Book 'Healed' Her 'Mom Guilt': 'Means So Much to Me' (Exclusive)

Mar. 15, 2025

Victoria Monét, daugher Hazel and the cover of ‘Everywhere You Are’.Photo:Dalvin Adams

Dalvin Adams

The PEOPLE Puzzler crossword is here! How quickly can you solve it? Play now!The topic of the book is one that’s particularly meaningful to Monét, as well. The book, per its publisher, aims to be a resource for young readers experiencing separation anxiety, and a way of “offering some healing” for parents as well.

Monét welcomed her own daughter, Hazel, with former boyfriend John Gaines in 2021, and says thatEverywhere You Arewas a way to channel some of her own feelings about motherhood.

“In a way, writing this book healed a portion of naturally occurring mom guilt for not being able to be in two places at once,” the artist says. “I think for a lot of moms, if we had the option, we would spend every waking hour loving on our children in their presence, but for the modern-day working woman, it just isn’t very realistic.”

“I wanted to address it this way so that there would be reinforcement of a mutual understanding between parent and child that no matter how far apart we ever are at any given moment, we are together through love we share for each other!” Monét adds.

Victoria Monét and daughter Hazel.Dalvin Adams

Monét and Hazel’s bond extended into Monét’s music in 2024 when Hazel, who is featured on Monét’s song “Hollywood,” was nominated for a Grammy Award. Hazel, now 3,became the youngest person nominated for the award. Monét says that she shared early versions of her new book with her daughter as well.

“Reading the drafts to Hazel gave me a sense of peace, knowing she can understand this sentiment and carry mommy with her wherever she goes,” Monét says. The artist also hopes thatEverywhere You Arewill be a similar comfort for families everywhere.“It brings so much joy to know that families will share moments of reflection, understanding and quality time while reading this book for generations to come!” Monét says. “I’m passionate about the subject of the book and explaining it in a way that is digestible for a child. I can’t wait to share it.”

source: people.com