Respect: A Children's Picture Book

Otis Redding’s classic song “Respect”―as popularized by Aretha Franklin―becomes an empowering picture book exploring the concept of mutual respect through the eyes of a young girl.

“[Respect‘s] art, by Rachel Moss, a Jamaican illustrator fueled by the energy of the Caribbean, will make readers want to amp up the music and dance, which perhaps is exactly what all of us need right now.” ―New York Times Book Review

"R-E-S-P-E-C-T / Find out what it means to me

R-E-S-P-E-C-T / Take care, TCB

Oh (sock it to me, sock it to me, sock it to me, sock it to me)

A little respect . . ."

Respect is a children’s picture book based on lyrics written and originally recorded by Otis Redding in 1965. Aretha Franklin’s iconic rendition of the song later peaked at #1 on Billboard’s Hot 100 in 1967. Redding’s lyrics continue to resonate with listeners today.

With lyrics by Otis Redding and illustrations by Rachel Moss, this irresistible book shows a young girl, her brother, and her parents conjuring as many positive futures for each other as they can dream. Packed with playful vignettes as they imagine a life full of possibility, Respect provides families an opportunity to explore themes of mutual respect―while revisiting one of the greatest songs ever written.

OTIS REDDING (1941–1967) was a singer, songwriter, and producer often referred to as the King of Soul™. Known for releasing such acclaimed songs as “These Arms of Mine,” “Try a Little Tenderness™,” and “Respect,” Redding is considered to be one of the most influential singers and songwriters of the 1960s. He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and received two GRAMMYs as well as a GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award. To learn more, visit: otisredding.com

RACHEL MOSS is an illustrator in love with the bright colors and vibrant energy of the Caribbean. She was born in Jamaica and studied animation in England at the University for the Creative Arts. Moss now lives in Jamaica where she spends her days illustrating children’s books such as Respect with song lyrics by Otis Redding, These Boots Are Made for Walkin’ with song lyrics by Lee Hazlewood, African with song lyrics by Peter Tosh, Lean on Me with song lyrics by Bill Withers, I Am a Promise by Shelly Ann Fraser Pryce, Abigail’s Glorious Hair, and Milo & Myra Learn Manners with Mr. Mongoose. Her latest work is illustrating Edwidge Danticat's children's picture book, Watch Out for Falling Iguanas.