PW’s reviews editors select well-known and up-and-coming children’s authors to meet at this year’s institute, whose books are either just out or due by September.
Picture Books
The Piñata That the Farm Maiden Hung
Samantha R. Vamos
Charlesbridge, Jan.
$17.99 hardcover
Ages 4–8
Announced first printing: 50,000
Why the buzz: “I love the active covert learning and casual diversity in this companion to Samantha’s The Cazuela That the Farm Maiden Stirred, which received a Pura Belpré Honor for Raphael López’s illustrations. It incorporates the construct of ‘The House That Jack Built’ with its cumulative verse, but as each new piece of the party is added, the word before it changes to Spanish. A fun, effective way to introduce a bilingual text with vivid, celebratory illustrations.” —Donna Spurlock, director of marketing, Charlesbridge
Publicity & marketing plans: Author tour in San Francisco area; digital marketing campaign; promotional giveaways at events and conferences.
Opening: “This is the piñata that the farm maiden hung.”
Illustrator Sebastià Serra will not be attending.
The Babysitter from Another Planet
Stephen Savage
Holiday House/Porter, Feb.
$17.99 hardcover
Ages 4–8
Announced first printing: 50,000
Why the buzz: “Gleefully riffing on the popular midcentury modern design aesthetic, award winner Stephen Savage creates an ideal bedtime read, with visual references to everything from ’50s science fiction movies to E.T. The hilarious writing will have kids laughing out loud and yearning for their very own babysitter from another planet.”—Neal Porter, v-p and publisher, Neal Porter Books
Publicity & marketing plans: Three-city tour; prepub buzz campaign; social media campaign focusing on nostalgia and design; online advertising on mid-century modern sites; collectible art print at conferences and trade shows.
Opening: “It was Friday night, and Mom and Dad were headed to the movies.”
Another
Christian Robinson
Atheneum, Mar.
$17.99 hardcover
Ages 4–8
Announced first printing: 200,000
Why the buzz: “With themes reminiscent of Harold and the Purple Crayon, The Snowy Day, and even Where the Wild Things Are, Another is a thought-provoking celebration of imagination. We are incredibly excited to be publishing Christian’s solo picture book debut!”—Justin Chanda, v-p, publisher, Atheneum Books for Young Readers
Publicity & marketing plans: Author tour; advertising; national print and online media campaign.
A Little Chicken
Tammi Sauer
Sterling, Mar.
$16.95 hardcover
Ages 4–8
Why the buzz: “Who else has an official day named for them in their home state? Named by Best of Books in Edmond, Okla, July 9 is Tammi Sauer Day. I’ve been working with Tammi for several years now, and it’s always a treat when a new book of hers hits our list. A Little Chicken is a funny, sweet story that’s all too relatable for kids everywhere—the world can be a scary place, and sometimes you need a little push to find your courage.”—Lauren Tambini, assistant manager, marketing and publicity, Sterling
Publicity & marketing plans: Author tour, including school visits; advertising; social media outreach.
Opening: “Dot was a little chicken... who, let’s face it, was a little chicken.”
Illustrator Dan Taylor is not attending.
Tiny T. Rex and the Impossible Hug
Jonathan Stutzman
Chronicle, Mar.
$15.99 hardcover
Ages 3–5
Announced first printing: 35,000
Why the buzz: “Tiny T. Rex is impossible to resist. And these days, Tiny’s message of loving friendship is more important than ever. Jonathan Stutzman and Jay Fleck really are a dream team, and we can’t wait for the world to fall in love with Tiny, just as we have.”—Ginee Seo, executive publishing director for children’s books, Chronicle Books
Publicity & marketing plans: Author and illustrator appearances; poster; animated video; print and online advertising; social media campaign; major promotion at school and library conferences.
Opening: “I have tiny arms. It is very difficult to hug with tiny arms.”
Illustrator Jay Fleck is not attending.
Llama Destroys the World
Jonathan Stutzman, illus. by Heather Fox
Holt, June
$17.99 hardcover
Ages 4–8
Announced first printing:100,000
Why the buzz: “Almost daily, I’m in desperate need of a good laugh, and Llama Destroys the World, the debut picture book by author-illustrator team Jonathan Stutzman and Heather Fox, never fails to deliver. Jonathan and Heather are the real deal; I’ve already acquired five books by them, each one as spirited and funny as the next. So if you and your young ones love dragons, pigeons, and/or crayons, you’re sure to lose it for this llama.”—Christian Trimmer, editorial director, Henry Holt Books for Young Readers
Publicity & marketing plans: Author appearances, including regional trade show and book festivals; advertising; promotions at San Diego Comic-Con and New York Comic Cons; parenting and educator blog tour; book trailer; MacKids social media engagement campaign; email marketing campaign; promotion at national school and library conferences; extensive outreach to key educators and librarians.
Opening: “On Monday, Llama found cake.”
Astro Baby
Michelle Tea
Dottir, Apr.
$18.95 paper over board
Ages up to 8
First printing: 10,000
Why the buzz: “Michelle Tea is a dynamo at everything she does, from bending genres to breaking boundaries to building communities. Now that she’s applying her signature wit and whimsy to a children’s book, I can’t wait for new and expecting parents to discover her. Astro Baby takes a novel idea—teach children about astrology—and turns it into an opportunity for children to learn beyond the basics of colors, shapes, and numbers (those are there, too) and understand what makes them unique in this universe.”—Kait Heacock, publicist, Dottir Press
Publicity & marketing plans: 12-city author tour in conjunction with Drag Queen Story Hour wherever possible, including an appearance at the Los Angeles Times Book Festival.
Opening: “The moment you were born,/ Time stood still/ And your chart was cast/ with a magical quill.”
Illustrator Mike Perry will not be attending.
Believe
Robert Sabuda
Candlewick, Apr.
$27.99 hardcover pop-up
Ages 5–8
Why the buzz: “Believe is Robert Sabuda’s most personal work to date, and it speaks to us all with its inspiring message: dream big, stand tall, and rise with others. The miracle of folded and cut-paper designs that burst from the page is not only one of engineering; it’s also one of love and craft and heart.”—Liz Bicknell, executive editorial director and associate publisher, Candlewick Press
Publicity & marketing plans: Author appearances; advertising; counter display.
Opening: “When I grow up, I will stand tall.”
Jacob’s Room to Choose
Ian Hoffman
Magination Press, May
$17.99 hardcover
Ages 4–8
First printing: 7,000
Why the buzz: “Jacob’s Room to Choose is about a kid who gets chased out of the boys’ bathroom because other kids think he doesn’t belongs there. I’m excited about this book because it follows Jacob’s New Dress, which made national headlines by being banned across the country. We expect challenges here too, but I am hoping we change some minds and open some (bathroom) doors for gender nonconforming kids and let them know that we got their back!”—Kristine Enderle, editorial director, Magination Press
Publicity & marketing plans: Mailing to library influencers; pitch to parenting magazines, bloggers, and human rights organizations; book display at major conferences; custom soaps; poster; reading guide.
Opening: “The carpet was warm. The bunnies were funny. Jacob and Sophie loved library time.”
Coauthor Sarah Hoffman and illustrator Chris Case will not be attending.
A Feel Better Book for Little Tears
Holly Brochmann
Magination Press, June
$17.99 hardcover
Ages 3–6
First printing: 5,000
Why the buzz: “I’m so excited about A Feel Better Book for Little Tears because it’s the latest in our super helpful and cute series, Feel Better Books for Little Kids. There’s something so satisfying about building a series, and I’ve been lucky enough to work on all three of these books. Sadness is such a common issue for kids (and adults!), and I love working on books that make a difference.”—Katherine Ten Hagen, editor, Magination Press
Publicity & marketing plans: Author appearance at TLA; advertising in regional holiday catalogs; outreach to parenting magazines and bloggers and to local media in Texas; custom tissue packets; book display at major conferences.
Opening: “My sweet little one, you don’t seem very cheery.”
Coauthor Leah Bowen and illustrator Shirley Ng-Benites will not be attending.
Middle Grade/YA
The Love and Lies of Rukhsana Ali
Sabina Kahn
Scholastic Press, Jan.
$17.99 hardcover
Ages 14 and up
First printing: 20,000
Why the buzz: “Sabina Khan has written a timely and achingly honest novel, exploring the complicated and deeply personal intersections of queer identity, family, and faith, and the hard choices one has to make when faced with deeply rooted prejudices. Heartbreaking yet hopeful, this beautiful novel is ultimately about finding yourself and speaking your truth, while celebrating life and love in the process.”—Jeffrey West, assistant editor, Scholastic Press
Publicity & marketing plans: Advertising to consumers and educators; feature at teen festivals and at educator and librarian conferences; social media assets; digital chapter sampler and audio clip; feature in Read with Pride Campaign; extensive social media campaign via @IreadYA community; promotion on Scholastic parents, educators, and librarians social media networks and websites.
Opening: “No parties, no shorts, no boys.”
Spin
Lamar Giles
Scholastic Press, Jan.
$17.99 hardcover
Ages 12 and up
First printing: 20,000
Why the buzz: “Spin is an ultra-modern thriller that transcends the genre. It’s an addictive read starring two fierce frenemies whose grief forces them together to find out who murdered their friend. This is a book of my heart because it’s a love letter to music, a shout-out to fandom, a clapback to those who try to silence girls. It’s about the cult of fame, the power of friendship, and the lengths we’ll go to stand up for justice.”—Jody Corbett, senior editor, Scholastic
Publicity & marketing plans: Advertising to consumers and educators; feature at teen festivals and at educator and librarian conferences; social media assets; digital chapter sampler and audio clip; extensive social media campaign via @IreadYA community; promotion on Scholastic parents’, educators’, and librarians’ social media networks and websites.
Opening: “I did not kill Paris Secord.”
The Storm Keeper’s Island
Catherine Doyle
Bloomsbury, Jan.
$16.99 hardcover
Ages 8–12
Announced first printing: 50,000
Why the buzz: “We won this series in a global auction, and could not be more excited for readers to dive into this gripping and enchanting tale. The first book is already a huge success in the U.K., nominated for the CILIP Carnegie Medal and selected as an Independent Booksellers’ Children’s Book of the Season. Catherine Doyle’s masterful and evocative writing is reminiscent of the very best classic fantasy, and her story will be sure to captivate readers young and old.” —Allison Moore, editor, Bloomsbury Children’s Books
Marketing & publicity plans: Author tour, including school visits; advertising; buzz-building social media campaign to influencers and consumers.
Opening: “In a field full of wildflowers, a boy and a girl stood side by side beneath an ancient oak tree.”
Two Can Keep a Secret
Karen M. McManus
Delacorte, Jan.
$19.99 hardcover
Ages 14 and up
Announced first printing: 250,000
Why the buzz: “It’s been so exciting to see Karen McManus’s debut, One of Us Is Lying, resonate with readers worldwide. Mysteries have always been a compelling genre, but I think what makes Karen’s writing so special is more than the whodunit—it’s her characters. They’re flesh and blood, and teens and adults connect to them fiercely. Two Can Keep a Secret is a different kind of mystery, but Karen has written characters that are just as deeply authentic.” —Krista Marino, senior executive editor, Delacorte
Publicity & marketing plans: Author tour, festival appearances, and events in Massachusetts; influencer ARC mailing, including booksellers, teachers, and librarians; single and mixed floor displays, including indie nine-copy signed floor display; online advertising, including on Goodreads, Instagram, and EW.com; promotion at librarian and educator conferences; book trailer; promotion on all Random House Children’s Books platforms, including RHTeachersLibrarians.com and GetUnderlined.com.
Opening: “If I believed in omens, this would be a bad one.”
We Are Here to Stay: Voices of Undocumented Young Adults
Susan Kuklin
Candlewick, Jan.
$19.99 hardcover
Ages 14 and up
Why the buzz: “In a follow-up to Beyond Magenta, Kuklin humanizes a highly politicized and divisive issue by giving voice to nine young adults who came to the U.S. illegally as children and grew up as part of the fabric of their schools, communities, and families. Candlewick is proud to publish the hopeful stories of these courageous and determined people in a format that is respectful and mindful of the continued challenges these young folks face.”—Hilary Van Dusen, executive editor, Candlewick Press
Publicity & marketing plans: Author appearances; advertising; mailings to influential audiences; extensive galley distribution; promotional postcard; video with the author and one of the young people profiled; social media campaign and online giveaways; outreach to librarians and educators via advertising, previews, newsletters, and a discussion guide.
Opening: “The nine young people featured in We Are Here to Stay could be your neighbors, classmates, friends, or even family members.”
The Music of What Happens
Bill Konigsberg
Scholastic/Levine, Feb.
$17.99 hardcover
Ages 14 and up
Announced first printing: 20,000
Why the buzz: “What does it mean to be a man? Jordan and Max explore that very question in The Music of What Happens as they fall in love one summer working on a food truck. They are characters in a book, yes, but Bill Konigsberg writes with an open heart and a singular voice that has made them people I will hold close for the rest of my life—and so, I think, will you.”—Nick Thomas, senior editor, Arthur A. Levine Books
Publicity & marketing plans: Author appearances; advertising; featured at teen festivals and educator and librarian conferences; extensive social media campaign via @IreadYA community; social media assets; digital chapter sampler and audio clip; feature in Read with Pride campaign; feature on Scholastic social media networks and websites for parents, educators, and librarians.
Opening: “There was this thing my dad taught me when I was a kid.”
New Kid
Jerry Craft
HarperCollins, Feb.
Simultaneous publication: $21.99 hardcover; $12.99 paperback
Ages 8—12
First printing: 125,000
Why the buzz: “This is a graphic novel 30 years in the making, drawing on the lived experiences of cartoonist Jerry Craft to tell the story of Jordan Banks, who begins the new school year at an upscale private school where he is one of only a few kids of color. At turns incisive and funny, this engrossing graphic novel is sure to spark much-needed discussion among students and educators about the role race plays in American schools.”—Andrew Eliopulos, executive editor, HarperCollins Children’s Books
Publicity & marketing plans: Five-city author tour; major consumer advertising campaign targeting tweens and parents; printed comic book promotion aimed at kids at comic cons and consumer events; extensive social media campaign, including video, sweepstakes, and other content.
Opening: “This is how I feel every single day of my life, like I’m falling without a parachute.”
To Night Owl from Dogfish
Holly Goldberg Sloan and Meg Wolitzer
Dial, Feb.
$17.99 hardcover
Ages 10 and up
Announced first printing: 150,000
Why the buzz: “The novel begins with a furtive email exchange between bookish Avery and fearless Bett when they discover that their gay dads have fallen in love and are planning to send them to sleepaway camp in the hopes that they will become best friends. Things don’t quite go according to plan. The authors bring their great wit and warmth to a story that readers of all ages will embrace, proving that family comes in all varieties.”—Elyse K. Marshall, executive director of publicity, Penguin Young Readers
Publicity & marketing plans: Author tour with school visits; advertising; major prepub author campaign; deluxe galley mailing and sampler distribution at consumer conferences; extensive blogger outreach, online promotion, and social media outreach; major promotion at school and library conferences and outreach to librarians and educators.
Opening: “From: Bett Devlin/To: Avery Bloom/Subject: you don’t know me but I’m writing to you anyway.”
Coauthor Meg Wolitzer is not attending.
Barely Missing Everything
Matt Mendez
Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy, Mar.
$17.99 hardcover
Ages 14 and up
First printing: 50,000
Why the buzz: “Matt Mendez grew up in central El Paso, Tex., and in his debut novel, he sheds a klieg light on his own experiences with racism and police brutality. The gut-punching conclusion of this fiercely brave novel will leave readers shocked, reeling, and feeling what it’s like to barely miss everything.”—Justin Chanda , v-p and publisher, Atheneum Books for Young Readers
Publicity & marketing plans: Author appearances; advertising; blogger outreach campaign.
Opening: “Juan Ramos was dead.”
Bloodleaf
Crystal Smith
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, Mar.
$18.99 hardcover
Ages 14 and up
Announced first printing: 100,000
Why the buzz: “Deliciously creepy spirits and a slow-burn romance combine with a leave-you-breathless, politically charged plot in this phenomenal debut. Bloodleaf is a standout fantasy that’s been garnering a lot of love—early fans have hailed the novel as an ‘instant classic’ and shouted about its relevance to our times. Crystal Smith’s storytelling truly delivers in a riveting read that refuses to let you go.”—Catherine Onder, senior v-p, publisher of HMH Books for Young Readers
Publicity & marketing plans: Author appearances at festivals and consumer shows; advertising; prepub buzz campaign; deluxe promotional box mailing; conference and festival promotions; discussion guide; book trailer; outreach to YA book bloggers; sampler pack and merchandising kit offer to retailers; social media promotion and giveaways.
Opening: “The gallows had been erected in the shadow of the clock tower, partly so that the spectators could witness the executions without the nuisance of sun in their eyes, and partly so that the Tribunal could keep its killings on precise schedule.”
Heroine
Mindy McGinnis
HarperCollins/Tegen, Mar.
$17.99 hardcover
Ages 14 and up
Why the buzz: “Staggering statistics are too often the entry point for readers learning about the opioid crisis. In Heroine, Mindy McGinnis creates an intimate and human face for this deadly epidemic, revealing an honest, urgent, and necessary story about addiction and how it impacts addicts, their families, their friends. Mickey Catalan is a character that will crawl deep into your soul and live there for a while. And perhaps call it to action.”—Benjamin Rosenthal, executive editor, Katherine Tegen Books
Publicity & marketing plans: Epic Reads Meet-Up tour; major online advertising campaign at on-sale targeting YA and crossover readers; extensive indie bookstore outreach, including galley mailing and printed display item; extensive social media campaign with custom video content.
Opening: “When I wake up, all my friends are dead.”
Mostly the Honest Truth
Jody J. Little
HarperCollins, Mar.
$16.99 hardcover
Ages 8—12
Why the buzz: “The cast of characters in Jody J. Little’s debut novel is one that readers will remember forever. From the moment I started reading Mostly the Honest Truth, I was completely taken by Jane Pengilly, an 11-year-old who has such a strong sense of who she is and what she wants. Watching her grow through the novel and open up to new people—and seeing all of the characters around her come to vivid life—gets me every time I read it.”—Erica Sussman, v-p, publishing director, HarperCollins Children’s Books
Publicity & marketing plans: Parent-targeted author blog post; featured in roundup posts, including “tough topics” and middle grade family stories.
Opening: “There were no signs along the highway posting how many miles to Three Boulders. Believe me, I was looking real hard.”
Opposite of Always
Justin A. Reynolds
HarperCollins/Tegen, Mar.
$17.99 hardcover
Ages 14 and up
Why the buzz: “It is an immense privilege and joy to introduce an electrifying new voice in YA, Justin A. Reynolds. Opposite of Always is an irresistible, page-turning, hilarious, and heart-racing debut, an epic contemporary romance with a high-concept twist. (Think Before I Fall meets Everything, Everything.) Justin probes big ideas—love, loss, grief, time—always prescribing laughter as the best medicine for readers. Be ready to fall in love.”—Benjamin Rosenthal, executive editor, Katherine Tegen Books
Publicity & marketing plans: Epic Reads Meet-Up tour; major online advertising campaign targeting YA and crossover readers; promotion at consumer festivals, including galley giveaways and custom promo items; buzz-building social media campaign, including video content and influencer outreach.
Opening: “My face is mashed sideways against the trunk of a police cruiser when Kate dies for the third time.”
The Revenge of Magic (Book 1)
James Riley
Aladdin, Mar.
$17.99 hardcover
Ages 8–12
Announced first printing: 75,000
Why the buzz: “It’s no easy feat to find a fresh way to write about magic school, but James Riley is an author who consistently delivers unique concepts. He’s done it again here in Revenge of Magic, a series rich with layers and fantastical twists that will thrill readers, and also driven by a moving undercurrent of a father-son bond that gives the books beautiful resonance.”—Liesa Abrams, v-p and editorial director, Simon Pulse
Publicity & marketing plans: Author tour; book festival appearances; advertising; education and library campaign; digital promotions.
Opening: “Just minutes before the attack in Washington, D.C., Fort’s father was embarrassing him at the Lincoln Memorial.”
Ronan Boyle and the Bridge of Riddles
Thomas Lennon
Amulet, Mar.
$17.99 hardcover
Ages 10–14
Announced first printing: 100,000
Why the buzz: “Hollywood actor and writer Thomas Lennon has delved into his Irish ancestry to create a hilarious world of troublemaking leprechauns, harpies, trolls, and other magical creatures. Our hero, Ronan Boyle, is a 14-year-old recruit in the Garda, a human police force in charge of the world of magical creatures. He’s also intent on proving the innocence of his parents, who are in jail for a crime they did not commit. If you like to laugh so hard you snort, this book is for you.”—Maggie Lehrman, executive editor, Amulet Books and Abrams Books for Young Readers
Publicity & marketing plans: Author tour; prepub author appearances and buzz campaign; preorder campaign and merchandising kit; print, online, and social media advertising; nine-copy floor display; event kit; author video; Comic Con promotion; school and library conference promotions; extensive social media outreach; branded web page.
Opening: “It almost never snows in Ireland. Ireland is a temperate zone. Snow-wise, the best you can hope for is a dusting.”
Sal & Gabi Break the Universe
Carlos Hernandez
Disney/Rick Riordan Presents, Mar.
$16.99, hardcover
Ages 8–12
Announced first printing: 75,000
Why the buzz: “After reading his book of quirky sci-fi stories for adults, I knew Carlos Hernandez had the imagination required to write compelling sci-fi for middle schoolers. But he exceeded my expectations when it came to delivering unique and fully developed characters, inventive storytelling, and riotously funny scenes. In addition, the book captures Cuban culture beautifully, and it offers readers profound ethical questions to ponder. Best of all, it’s wrapped with a big bow of love.”—Stephanie Lurie, editor-at-large, Disney-Hyperion
Publicity & marketing plans: Author appearances; online advertising; nine-copy frontlist floor display; cross promotion with Rick Riordan social media and on dedicated Read Riordan website and social media; back of book ad in print and digital Rick Riordan backlist; chapter excerpt included in The Ship of the Dead (to pub in April); promotion at New York Comic Con; social media shareables; blogger/vlogger campaign tapping into “The Percy Pack,” 50 online ambassadors of all things Rick Riordan; sponsored BookTuber videos on YouTube.
Opening: “There’s all sorts of bad advice out there about how to deal with bullies.”
The Wizenard Series: Training Camp
Kobe Bryant, creator
Wesley King, author
Granity Studios, Mar.
$18.99 hardcover
Ages 10—up
Announced first printing: 200,000
Why the buzz: “I couldn’t be more excited about the debut of Granity Studio’s first YA novel, The Wizenard Series: Training Camp. Sports provide an exceptional literary vehicle for teaching children life lessons. We hope this novel ignites their imaginations and inspires them to be better versions of themselves. We know no better way to introduce readers to Granity than through the tale of the West Bottom Badgers and their magical coach, Rolabi Wizenard.”—Kobe Bryant, CEO, Granity Studios
Publicity & marketing plans: New York City book signing; high-profile press appearances; librarian outreach; partnership with major national sports, youth, coaching organizations, and influencers; detailed day-to-day social media campaign.
Opening: “Rain pulled open the doors and found darkness.”
Author Wesley King is not attending.
XL
Scott Brown
Knopf, Mar.
$17.99 hardcover
Ages 12—up
Announced first printing: 50,000
Why the buzz: “I finished Scott Brown’s brilliant XL flying to a movie set where another book I edited was being filmed and soon found myself in an auction, during which I felt like I was playing an editor in the movies. (This is not how I typically acquire a book.) Scott set out to write a commercial page-turner; he actually wrote a raw, nuanced, literary page-turner. Real life editors, as opposed to onscreen editors, dream of endings like this: XL recognized by booksellers for the Indies Introduce program (fade to black).”—Erin Clarke, senior executive editor, Knopf Books for Young Readers
Publicity & marketing plans: Author appearances at Massachusetts events and book festivals; advertising on Facebook, Instagram, and Goodreads; promotion at librarian and educator conferences and on all Random House Children’s Books platforms, including RHTeachersLibrarians.com and GetUnderlined.com.
Opening: “The problem with monsters,” Monica liked to say, “is that monsters win.”
Caterpillar Summer
Gillian McDunn
Bloomsbury, Apr.
$16.99 hardcover
Ages 8–12
Announced first printing: 50,000
Why the buzz: “Gillian’s heartfelt and emotional writing is already striking a chord with early readers, including the members of the Indies Introduce committee. Caterpillar Summer is definitely the start of a strong career for Gillian.”—Erica Barmash, senior director of marketing, Bloomsbury Children’s Books
Publicity & marketing plans: Author tour with school visits; festival and conference appearances; a buzz-building social media campaign to influencers and consumers; an Indies Introduce pick for Winter/Spring 2019.
Opening: “Cat always kept her brother at the back of her mind, except for the times he was at the front of it.”
The Devouring Gray
Christine Lynn Herman
Disney-Hyperion, Apr.
$18.99, hardcover
Ages 12 and up
First printing: 35,000
Why the buzz: “Picture the new girl, the golden boy, the troublemaker, and the outcast—except they’re descendants of powerful families destined to protect their town from a monster. With the aesthetic of Riverdale crossed with Stranger Things and characters as flawed as they are fierce, this debut novel (the first in a duology) devoured me completely. Remember the name Christine Lynn Herman; she’s going to be the one stealing all your shelf space in the not-so-distant future.”—Hannah Allaman, assistant editor, Disney-Hyperion
Publicity & marketing plans: Six-city author tour; Instagram/YouTube tour; online advertising; cover revealed on Hypable; blogger/vlogger campaign for YA influencers, including teaser mailing and Instagram coverage; social media shareables; promotion on Let’s Talk YA social media.
Opening: “After they found the third body that year, Justin Hawthorne knelt in his backyard and prepared to hear his future.”
The Next Great Paulie Fink
Ali Benjamin
Little, Brown, Apr.
$16.99 hardcover
Ages 8–12
Announced first printing: 100,000
Why the buzz: “What Ali Benjamin’s beloved debut, The Thing About Jellyfish, did for science, her second book, The Next Great Paulie Fink, does for philosophy—but this time, with humor. It’s about what happens when our celebrity-obsessed, reality TV world collides with a deeper humanity. It’s about how much we can ever really know about others, and about discovering new parts of ourselves. It’s fresh, memorable, funny, and profound, and I can’t wait for it to inspire conversation.”—Andrea Spooner, v-p and editorial director, Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Publicity & marketing plans: Author tour; advertising; prepub buzz campaign; school and library conference promotions; nine-copy signed floor display; book club guide and promotion; social media outreach and shareable social media graphics; LBYR.com feature; librarian and educator outreach; LB school podcast, e-newsletter feature, and networking promotion.
Opening: “If the whole thing really had been a TV show, like everyone kept pretending it was, there are a million places the first episode could have started.”
A Place for Wolves
Kosoko Jackson
Sourcebooks Fire, Apr.
$17.99 hardcover
Ages 14 and up
Announced first printing: 75,000
Why the buzz: “When I first read this on submission, I knew I had a very special book on my hands. Kosoko Jackson has written a book that at times reads like a thriller, at others a tender love story, and still others a poignant and funny coming-of-age novel. I fell in love with the devotion and passion these two boys have for one another. And my heart was in my throat as I turned the pages, praying these two characters would not only survive, but live.”—Annie Berger, senior editor, Sourcebooks Jabberwocky and Sourcebooks Fire
Publicity & marketing plans: Author appearances; prepub buzz campaign; preorder campaign; advertising, including Goodreads; major social influencer outreach and promotions; library marketing.
Opening: “I’m going to die here.”
White Rose
Kip Wilson
Versify, Apr.
$17.99 hardcover
Ages 12 and up
Announced first printing: 30,000
Why the buzz: “As one of the inaugural projects for Versify, White Rose is strikingly relevant for today’s teens. It’s a beautifully written novel in verse that tells the incredible story of Sophie Scholl, a German student who challenged the Nazi regime. As student movements and protests are taking place across the country, now is the perfect time to tell Sophie’s story of courage and non-violent resistance, and we are thrilled to share Kip Wilson’s heartfelt first novel.”—Margaret Raymo, senior executive editor at HMH Books for Young Readers
Publicity & marketing plans: Author appearances; conference promotions; advertising; dedicated bookseller mailing: Jewish community outreach and advertising; social media promotions; partnerships with YA bloggers, BookTubers, and Bookstagrammers.
Opening: “The cars screech to a/ halt, officers pull/ us out by the arms, haul/ us inside and off to/ separate/ rooms, my heartbeat/ pounding,/ all the while,/ boom-boom/ boom-boom.”
Bright Burning Stars
A.K. Small
Algonquin Young Readers, May
$17.95 hardcover
Ages 14–18
Why the buzz: “A.K. Small’s Bright Burning Stars is an irresistible wild ride. It’s about friendship and ambition. It’s also about figuring out exactly what you would do to achieve your goals. And through it all the author creates an atmosphere so thick and lush that—even though the book is purely realistic—you begin to wonder whether or not there is magic in this world. It’s gorgeous and spellbinding and it completely captured my heart.”—Krestyna Lypen, editor, Algonquin Young Readers
Publicity & marketing plans: Author appearances; prepublication buzz campaign; extensive online promotion, social media campaign, and giveaways; promotion through early reader review programs; outreach to dance programs; extensive librarian and educator promotion, including author appearances at national conferences; downloadable discussion guide.
Opening: “We stood outside the circular studio in the apex of the dance annex. Some of us obsessively rose up and down in the first position to break the soles of our shoes, while others, like the boys, tucked their T-shirts into their tights and cracked their necks for luck.”
Finale
Stephanie Garber
Flatiron, May
$19.99 hardcover
Ages 13–18
Announced first printing: 300,000
Why the buzz: “From the moment I read the first pages of her first novel, Caraval, I knew that this writer’s boundless imagination and vivid characters would make her book—and the many that would assuredly follow—obsessive, immersive reads. Stephanie Garber is a born storyteller. And two runaway bestsellers later, she has more than delivered on that early promise with her third book in the series following the Dragna sisters and their involvement in the dangerous game of Caraval. Finale, surprising to the end, is the crown jewel to end the games forever.”—Sarah Barley, editorial director, YA, Flatiron Books
Publicity & marketing plans: Five-city or more author tour; blogger outreach; preorder campaign; digital advertising: email marketing campaign; prepub YA, book club, and BookTube, Bookstagrammer outreach; New York BookCon and Comic Con presence; major finished copy mailing; tie-in with paperback publication of Legendary; major library marketing campaign.
Opening: “Scarlett Dragna’s bedroom was a palace built of wonder and the magic of make-believe.”
Kings, Queens, and In-Betweens
Tanya Boteju
Simon Pulse, May
$18.99 hardcover
Ages 12 and up
First printing: 50,000
Why the buzz: “This book is the intersection of everything good in this world—first love, the colorful world of drag, and queer teens of color finding their place in the world and also their happily-ever-afters. Tanya writes with an empathy and flair that makes for not only a feel-good read, but a life-affirming, hopeful one, too. We are proud to publish this gem of a debut and cannot wait to see it reach and resonate with the teens who need it most.”—Jennifer Ung, senior editor, Simon Pulse
Publicity & marketing plans: Publicity campaign; education and library campaign; digital promotions.
Opening: “The first time Ginny Woodland spoke to me, I vomited all over her Reeboks.”
Nocturna
Maya Motayne
HarperCollins/Balzer + Bray, May
$18.99 hardcover
Ages 14 and up
Why the buzz: “Nocturna is a book that can’t help but set a fantasy fan’s heart aflutter—set in a vibrant Latinx-inspired kingdom, this is a story full of adventure, breathtaking magic, and the coming together of two very different characters who absolutely crackle with life. Most importantly, though, this story holds, at its heart, the idea that—in Maya’s own words—culture is magic.”—Kristin Rens, executive editor, Balzer + Bray
Publicity & marketing plans: Author appearances; major online advertising campaign at on-sale date; promotion at consumer festivals with galley giveaway and a custom item; buzz-building social media campaign utilizing trailer and custom influencer mailing.
Opening: “A prince always comes home.”
Pie in the Sky
Remy Lai
Henry Holt, May
$12.99 paperback
Ages 8–11
First printing: 100,000
Why the buzz: “Pie in the Sky marks the middle-grade debut of a rare talent with the jaw-dropping power to combine pitch-perfect prose and evocative art that will make readers laugh, cry, and rejoice. In writing about finding your voice, Remy Lai has found her own, speaking directly to a wide range of kids, including immigrants, readers who feel like outsiders, and those who’ve known grief, to tell a hilarious, emotional story that celebrates perseverance, love, and individuality.”—Brian Geffen, editor, Henry Holt Books for Young Readers
Publicity & marketing plans: Advertising; prepub buzz marketing campaign; galley promotion on Goodreads; promotions at regional trade shows and conventions, including San Diego Comic-Con, as well as national school and library conferences; teacher and librarian blog tour; book trailer; MacKids social media engagement campaign; email marketing campaign; outreach to middle grade book clubs and to key educators and library contacts.
Opening: “Mama says I’ll love my new home and my new school and my new friends.”
Stepsister
Jennifer Donnelly
Scholastic Press, May
$17.99 hardcover
Ages 12 and up
Announced first printing: 200,000
Why the buzz: “Jennifer Donnelly’s ‘Cinderella’ retelling opens with one of the stepsisters cutting off her toes to squeeze into the glass slipper and only grows more startling from there. We’re used to stories about ugly ducklings who become beautiful, but what happens to the girls who reject that narrative and decide to embrace ‘ugly’? That’s what inspired Jennifer to explore our culture’s toxic obsession with beauty, and the result is nothing short of masterful.”—Mallory Kass, senior editor, Scholastic Press
Publicity & marketing plans: Author tour; advertising; extensive prepub buzz campaign; extensive social media campaign via @IreadYA Community; feature on Scholastic Parents, Educators, and Librarians social media networks and websites; social media assets; dedicated Tumblr site; feature at teen festivals and educator and librarian conferences; digital chapter sampler and audio clip.
Opening: “This is a dark tale. A grim tale.”
The Voice in My Head
Dana L. Davis
Inkyard, May
$18.99 hardcover
Ages 12–18
Announced first printing: 75,000
Why the buzz: “Dana Davis has a talent for tackling weighty subjects with a lightness that leaves readers feeling hopeful. The Voice in My Head is a story about a girl who, on a family road trip, must learn how to live without someone she can’t imagine living without, her twin. Like her debut, Tiffany Sly Lives Here Now, it places black teen girls and their families front and center in a story with heart, humor, and important takeaways.”—T.S. Ferguson, editor, Inkyard Press
Publicity & marketing plans: Author appearances, including TLA conference; print and digital advertising; extensive galley distribution, including Goodreads giveaways; major digital outreach and influencer outreach; feature title at BookCon; web exclusives, including excerpts, author features, and giveaways; backlist price promotions, including in-book excerpts; feature in Inkyard Press social media and newsletter; library outreach, including live book previews.
Opening: “My hands tighten around the rusted metal scaffolding as I pull myself up onto a pair of wooden planks near the rooftop of an old industrial warehouse.”
A Wolf Called Wander
Rosanne Parry
Greenwillow, May
$16.99 hardcover
Ages 8—12
First printing: 75,000
Why the buzz: “I was immediately swept into Swift’s story. I loved seeing the world from a wolf’s point of view. I loved tasting, smelling, experiencing, imagining nature so viscerally. Sometimes my heart was in my throat, sometimes I was terrified to turn the page, often I laughed at Swift’s antics. Always I cared passionately. A Wolf Called Wander is a book about empathy and migration and nature and finding a place. Mostly, though, it’s a great adventure story about a wolf.”—Virginia Duncan, v-p and publisher, Greenwillow
Publicity & marketing plans: Partnership with the Wolf Conservation Center (donation and partnership campaign to protect wolves); major consumer advertising campaign targeting tweens and parents; extensive indie bookstore outreach, including IndieBound mailing; extensive social media campaign including video and more.
Opening: “I begin in darkness, and my nose tells me everything I know.”
Illustrator Mónica Armiño will not be attending.
Sorcery of Thorns
Margaret Rogerson
McElderry, June
$17.99 hardcover
Ages 14—up
First printing: 125,000
Why the buzz: “Books live at the heart of this story by bestselling author Margaret Rogerson, who continues to weave vivid worlds with her evocative writing laced with wit.”—Justin Chanda, v-p and publisher, Margaret K. McElderry Books
Publicity & marketing plans: Author tour; advertising; blogger outreach campaign.
Opening: “Night fell as death rode into the Great Library of Summershall.”
Queen of the Sea
Dylan Meconis
Walker Books US, June
$24.99 hardcover
Ages 10–14
Why the buzz: “Queen of the Sea represents the intersection of three childhood obsessions: female spaces, illustrated fiction, and the Tudors. With Queen of the Sea, Meconis captures in wonderful detail the rhythms of a convent, as it is disrupted by the arrival of a young Elizabeth Tudor–inspired character, imprisoned there by her half-sister. With 400 pages of full-color illustrated and sequential-art pages, this hybrid novel is representative of a new golden age of illustrated fiction, led in part by women comics artists, and is a welcome layered portrait of a woman on the verge of great power.”—Susan Van Metre, executive editorial director, Walker Books US
Publicity & marketing plans: Author appearances, including San Diego Comic-Con; advertising; librarian and educator outreach; outreach to bloggers; online galley giveaways; galley and blad distribution; discussion guide.
Opening: “A queen does not abandon her people.”
Rat Rule 79
Rivka Galchen
Restless/Yonder, Sept.
$19.99 hardcover
Ages 10—up
First printing: 10,000
Why the buzz: “I am such a smitten fan of Rivka Galchen that I’d gladly publish her shopping list, even a tic-tac-toe match—which would be full of logical linguistic pyrotechnics and would bring you to your emotional knees. Her first kids’ book, Rat Rule 79, is cause for dance and song and fireworks: it’s The Phantom Tollbooth meets Alice in Wonderland, with a no-nonsense heroine named Fred and a cornucopia of fantastic, fantastical characters: an all-ages classic!”—Nathan Rostron, editor and marketing director, Restless Books
Publicity & marketing plans: Author tour in the fall; 1,000+ ARCs; national and international publicity campaign.
Opening: “Not long ago and not far away, in fact right here in the living room, there was a girl named Fred.”
—Illustrator Elena Megalos is not attending.
