BOOKS
Coming Soon…
Cat Onder at HMH has acquired Belong by poet Mary Rand Hess (I.) (co-author with Kwame Alexander of Solo and Swing), with artwork from Nina Mata (illustrator of I Promise by LeBron James), an affirming picture book that celebrates difference, the environment, and the ways all children can play a part in shaping our world. Publication is planned for fall 2024; Deborah Warren of East West Literary represented the author, and Christy Ewers at the CAT Agency represented the illustrator.
Lauri Hornik at Rocky Pond Books has acquired world rights to Quiet is Strength by NYT-bestselling author Mary Rand Hess, illustrated by award-winning Dow Phumiruk, an ode to all the quieter souls in life, who may find it difficult to be seen or heard, and who may not know their own strengths. Publication is scheduled for spring 2025; Deborah Warren at East West Literary Agency represented both the author and the illustrator.
Kyra Ostendorf at Free Spirit/Teacher Created Materials has bought, in an exclusive three-book deal, the picture book series Mini-Musical Tales from Bird Mountain School by storytellers and musical creators Mary Rand Hess and Randy Preston, illustrated by Gina Capaldi. Each book — Bravo for Backstage, Chicken Predicament, and The Great Dance-On — features dramatic narratives, songs, and SEL themes. Publication is planned for winter 2025; Deborah Warren at East/West Literary Agency sold world rights.