Sisterly Bond: Jenna and Barbara Bush Launch New Children’s Book

Brooklyn, N.Y. — Jenna Bush Hager and Barbara Bush are embarking on a promotional tour for their new children’s book while managing the hectic lives of their respective families. The sisters, both 43, are raising five children between them and finding joy amid the chaos.

On March 24 and 25, Barbara took a break from her role with the NBA to co-host the Today show with Jenna, a position she humorously claimed she would never assume. “This is easy. We’ve been practicing for this since our childhood,” Jenna told PEOPLE, reflecting on their early experiences together. “We had a talk show called Barbara & Jenna & Friends in the womb,” she quipped.

Barbara echoed her sister’s sentiment, joking, “It was a hit,” while also cautioning viewers that her appearance would be temporary. “I’m going to keep the seat warm for two days, and then I’m going to return to my cave,” she said with a laugh.

The sisters, who grew up in the political spotlight, are now navigating the challenges and joys of motherhood. Their mother, former First Lady Laura Bush, was a librarian, and both grandmothers were also committed to literacy. This literary legacy is reflected in the new book, which Jenna describes as a “call to action” for busy parents. “It’s like, ‘Hey, put the phone down. You only have so long with your kids,’” she said.

During a recent photoshoot, Jenna was seen reading to her son Hal while Poppy, one of Barbara’s daughters, turned the pages of their storybook. “If you can see the world through your kids’ eyes, it’s so optimistic and joyful and creative,” Jenna noted, highlighting the importance of parental engagement.

Barbara is fully embracing her role as a mother, relishing each moment with her children. “Little tiny blooms of purple flowers were coming out of a flower bed when we were walking to school, and Cora Georgia was so excited to point it out when I would have walked by and missed it,” she reflected. The novelty of motherhood is still fresh for her, and she emphasizes the beauty found in everyday moments.

Jenna, who welcomed her daughter Mila in 2013, affirmed her belief that Barbara was destined for motherhood. “She’s so creative and fun and present,” Jenna said. “All kids want is to feel like they’re seen, and she makes both of her babies feel like that.” Their shared bond is evident as they support one another through this phase of their lives.

The sisters are set to continue their tour to promote their new book, which is now available. For more insights from their exclusive interview, fans can check out this week’s issue of PEOPLE on newsstands Friday.

“Our shared history makes us brave,” Jenna concludes, emphasizing the strength of their sisterly connection as they embark on this new chapter together.

Today with Jenna & Friends airs weekdays at 10 a.m. ET on NBC.