Since arriving on the scene with her debut album 'Little Earthquakes' in 1992, Tori Amos has sold more than 12 million records, received eight Grammy nominations, and become synonymous with songwriting that comes from an unflinchingly honest and courageous place. In turn, she has inspired countless women (and also men, surely) to not be afraid to confront their deepest feelings and fears, and to find grace and salvation through creativity.

It is hardly a surprise then that she would turn her talents to writing a children's book, in hopes of emboldening a younger generation for whom the themes of her songs may yet be a little too...grown up. Indeed, 'Tori and the Muses' was released in spring of 2025 by Penguin Young Readers to much excitement and acclaim.

“The muses in my life have been there since I can remember," she reveals. "I remember them more than almost anything, they’re true to me. In the book, I wanted to share their influence, and their acceptance of exploring musically, creatively.”

The story follows a young girl named - you guessed it - Tori, who longs to escape the drudgery of piano practice. She then welcomes her eleven muses, who just happen to be bringing her a beautiful, wondrous and very colorful musical gift. (We won't spoil the surprise, you'll just have to read the book.)

“What I’m hoping this book brings to children and families who read it," Tori explains, "is that muses really do exist. I’m aware that some people haven’t found theirs yet; [and they] will say to me, ‘I try to go out and find the muses you talk about.' But you don’t want to find the ones I’m talking about. I’m interested in your [muses], they will be uniquely your own. I believe that deep, deep in my heart, that they exist for everybody. Trust your muses.”

Naturally, it being Tori Amos, there is a soundtrack to accompany the story, which can be accessed via Apple Music. We especially love the song 'S'Magic Day', because, well...who doesn't need a little more magic in their lives? (Favorite lyric: "Anna was baking scrumpdileicious magic cupcakes" - yum!)

We sincerely hope 'Tori and the Muses' helps you to discover your own muses!