Picture a Texan storyteller whose heartfelt memoirs and vibrant TV presence have charmed millions—meet Jenna Bush Hager! Known for her bestselling books, co-hosting NBC’s Today Show, and championing Southern culture, Jenna weaves warmth and authenticity into everything she does. From her White House upbringing to her literary ventures, she’s carved a unique path that’s both inspiring and relatable.
The Making of Jenna Bush Hager
Born on November 25, 1981, in Dallas, Texas, Jenna Welch Bush Hager grew up as the daughter of former U.S. President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush, alongside her fraternal twin sister, Barbara. Her childhood was a blend of Southern charm and global exposure, shaped by her family’s political legacy. After earning an English degree from the University of Texas at Austin, Jenna’s passion for storytelling led her to work as a teacher’s aide and intern with UNICEF in Latin America, experiences that ignited her writing career.
Jenna Bush Hager’s Unforgettable Stories
Jenna’s writing is a tapestry of personal reflection, family wisdom, and social good. Her debut, Ana’s Story: A Journey of Hope (2007), draws from her UNICEF work, chronicling a young mother’s resilience against HIV. Co-authored with her mother, Laura Bush, children’s books like Our Great Big Backyard and Read All About It! celebrate adventure and literacy. Her memoirs, Sisters First (with Barbara) and Everything Beautiful in Its Time, offer intimate glimpses into her life, blending humor, loss, and love. In 2023, Love Comes First continued her tradition of heartfelt storytelling. Jenna’s style is conversational yet profound, inviting readers to find beauty in life’s complexities.
As an editor-at-large for Southern Living magazine since 2012, Jenna pens columns like the “Paper Napkin Interview,” capturing the South’s vibrant culture. Her Read with Jenna book club, launched in 2019 on the Today Show, has spotlighted 77 titles by April 2025, boosting authors and fostering a passionate reading community. Her podcast, Open Book with Jenna, furthers her literary influence, hosting candid author chats.
Why Jenna Bush Hager Matters
Jenna’s impact transcends her famous surname. Through her book club and publishing venture with Penguin Random House, Thousand Voices x RHPG, she amplifies diverse voices, making literature accessible and engaging. Her advocacy with UNICEF’s Next Generation highlights her commitment to global health, while her Today Show presence brings joy to millions. Jenna’s ability to connect—whether through a memoir’s tender prose or a lively TV segment—makes her a cultural force, inspiring readers to embrace empathy and curiosity.
- Birth Date: November 25, 1981
- Key Works: Ana’s Story, Sisters First, Everything Beautiful in Its Time, Love Comes First
- Notable Role: Co-host of Today with Jenna & Friends
- Fun Fact: She chairs UNICEF’s Next Generation, aiding global childhood health.
Ready to dive into Jenna’s world? Snag Sisters First for a heartfelt read that’s like chatting with a dear friend!