Leah Pruett shifts gears: NHRA champion launches inspiring children’s book

In an electrifying twist that has fans buzzing, NHRA drag racing sensation Leah Pruett is making waves beyond the racetrack by stepping into the enchanting world of children’s literature. The 37-year-old star announced her debut children’s book, “Winning Attitudes,” on social media platform X, generating excitement with a Christmas pre-sale that promises to engage young readers just in time for the holiday season.

Pruett’s racing career faced unforeseen challenges after her pregnancy with NASCAR legend Tony Stewart, who admirably filled in for her and clinched the Rookie of the Year title in 2024. This year, he celebrated a monumental victory, securing his first Top Fuel win at the spectacular four-wide Nationals in Las Vegas. Meanwhile, Pruett made her triumphant return to the driver’s seat during a private June test at Virginia Motorsports Park, where she got behind the wheel of Stewart’s dragster, reaffirming her commitment to reclaiming her place in the sport as she gears up for the 2026 season.

As anticipation builds for her return to competitive racing, Pruett offered a sneak peek of her literary venture, declaring, “📚 My new children’s book, “Winning Attitudes,” is officially on Christmas pre-sale!🎄” This heartwarming project is slated for release in March 2026, showcasing her ability to inspire the next generation through storytelling.

In addition to her literary pursuits, Pruett has shed light on her husband’s philanthropic efforts, highlighting Tony Stewart’s generous $2.25 million donation to a children’s hospital in Charlotte. This significant contribution is earmarked for a new pediatric Intermediate Care Unit (IMCU), a specialized wing designed to provide enhanced care for young patients, underscoring the couple’s commitment to giving back to the community.

However, the dynamic duo also faces the unique challenge of navigating their professional and personal lives. As Pruett prepares to return to Tony Stewart Racing in 2026, Stewart has made the strategic move to partner with Elite Motorsports. This partnership comes with its own complexities, particularly regarding sponsorships, as both racers find themselves representing rival brands—Pruett with Dodge and Stewart with Ford.

In an enlightening conversation with Dale Earnhardt Jr., Stewart candidly discussed the intricacies of balancing their relationship with their racing careers. He recounted a humorous moment when both were on the phone negotiating with their respective sponsors while sitting mere feet from each other in their motorhome. “I remember on the way home from Swing Arm (City) with Ken (Block),” he shared, “I’m driving the motorhome, she’s on the right side of the motorhome, and we hang up from that call and I’m calling Ford and she’s calling Dodge at the same time.”

The couple has cleverly navigated this tricky terrain, finding a way to support one another while maintaining their professional identities. Pruett and Stewart, who got engaged in 2021 and tied the knot later that year after meeting during the COVID-19 lockdown, are also proud parents to their one-year-old son, Dominic James.

Recently, they shared the spotlight at the NHRA awards banquet, where Stewart was honored for an impressive second-place finish in the 2025 season. As Leah Pruett embarks on this new chapter, blending her passion for racing with her newfound role as an author, fans can look forward to a thrilling ride ahead, both on the track and in the world of literature.