Tyndale House Publishers is highlighting a pivotal voice in the #MeToo movement with both a memoir and a children’s book by Rachael Denhollander, who was the first former gymnast to publicly accuse former U.S.A. Gymnastics national team doctor Larry Nassar of sexual abuse in 2016.
Slated for publication in September, What is a Girl Worth? draws its title from Denhollander’s witness testimony in the abuse trial against Nassar last year, in which she asked the judge to impose the maximum sentence. The book will depict Denhollander’s story of abuse that began when she was 15, it’s impact on her life, and why she decided to speak out. Nassar, who abused over 150 victims over the course of 20 years, was sentenced to 175 years in prison last year.
Sarah Atkinson, associate publisher at Tyndale, described Denhollander’s story as an example others can follow for speaking up and speaking out.
“As Rachael tells her story, we'll better understand why survivors stay silent and how we can do our part to protect the vulnerable,” she tells PW. “I want to amplify the voices of brave women and men who are showing us—with truth and grace—how to do better by one another.”
To be published simultaneously, How Much is a Little Girl Worth? features a poem that teaches young readers to have a strong sense of self-worth, according to Tyndale’s Linda Howard, associate publisher, children and youth.
“It lays a foundation for confidence and dignity that will give them the courage to defend themselves against those who may try to make them feel worthless or 'less-than,'” Howard said. “If a young girl can internalize a strong sense of self-worth, she will know when someone is treating her badly and have the strength to stand up for herself or find someone to help her.”
Byrd Leavell at United Talent Agency, LLC represented Denhollander in the world rights deal.
