DECAL to distribute 87,000+ books to Georgia Pre-K students

ATLANTA–The Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) will soon distribute more than 87,000 books to children enrolled in Georgia’s Pre-K across the state.

This year’s book is the vibrant and colorful “Every Amazing Song,” co-authored by Coy Bowles, a member of the Grammy Award-winning Zac Brown Band, and Malcolm Mitchell, a former UGA football star and Super Bowl champion with the New England Patriots.

Both authors are dedicated champions of early childhood education and literacy.

The book will be celebrated during Georgia Pre-K Week, Oct. 5–9. The annual event, now in its 16th year, promotes early learning and literacy. DECAL will give a copy of the book to each Pre-K classroom and to each student who can take the book home to share with families and caretakers. 

Every Amazing Song invites readers to join Coy and Malcolm on a journey aboard the Magic Music Machine, where rhythm, creativity, and confidence come to life. Children will discover how to build a beat and find a melody, from a steady stomp to the boom of the bass, learning how every instrument adds its own power to the song.  

The book provides parents and educators with a powerful tool to encourage self-expression and creative bravery, build essential music and active listening skills, and turn reading into an interactive, hands-on experience. Accompanying the book are two original songs written by Bowles and Mitchell and a myriad of fun educational activities that echo the storyline.

The book is a follow-up to “Every Amazing Story” which the duo authored for the 2025 Pre-K Week.

“Every Amazing Song” is another fantastic children’s book from Coy and Malcolm,” said DECAL Commissioner Amy M. Jacobs. “Pre-K students will enjoy following the fun story line, dancing and stomping, and learning about music and instruments. It’s a great way for our young learners to have fun in the classroom and begin to develop a passion for reading.”

“Georgia’s Pre-K is built on the belief that every child deserves joyful, meaningful learning experiences that spark curiosity and confidence,” said Susan Adams, Deputy Commissioner for Georgia’s Pre-K and Instructional Supports. “Every Amazing Song” gives teachers and families a wonderful way to connect reading, music, movement, and imagination, helping children see themselves as creative learners with their own voices to share.”

“This book beautifully captures what I’ve been striving for,” said Bowles. “It brings the magic of reading and the power of music together in a delightful creative adventure for kids, teachers, and families. I truly believe we nailed it when you listen to the song and read the book together.”

During Georgia Pre-K Week, state and local civic leaders will visit classrooms statewide to read this book and others books to students and experience firsthand how the program provides high-quality early learning that prepares children for success.

About DECAL 

The Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning is the state agency supporting Georgia’s children and families by overseeing and promoting access to high-quality early care and education programs. These programs include Georgia’s Pre-K, childcare licensing, CAPS, Quality Rated, nutrition programs, Head Start collaboration, and statewide quality improvement efforts. Get more information at www.decal.ga.gov

Book Cover credit: coybowles.com