Lerner Publishing Group announced on Monday that the Minneapolis children’s publisher is acquiring Soaring Kite Books; the acquisition will be effective as of January 1. Soaring Kite was founded in Washington, D.C., by marketing executive Ceece Kelley in 2020, with a mission to “give a voice and a presence to underrepresented main characters in children’s books” and a focus on emerging voices that explore a range of cultural experiences. Soaring Kite will become LPG’s 18th imprint, with Kelley acting in a consulting role after the transition.

Soaring Kite made its debut in February 2022 with its inaugural title, Dear Mama’s Loving Arms, a picture book written by Kelley and illustrated by Sawyer Cloud. Kelley is also the author of the Georgie Dupree series of books for early readers, illustrated by Chloe Guevara. There are 30 Soaring Kite titles in print, and four titles are scheduled for release in 2025. Soaring Kite’s list includes board books, picture books, and books for early readers. A number of its releases have been published in English and in Spanish-language editions.

“Lerner has had the privilege of distributing Soaring Kite Books since their inaugural publishing season, and over the past few years, we’ve seen firsthand the tremendous impact their titles have had on young readers and educators alike,” Adam Lerner, LPG CEO and publisher, said in a release. “We are excited to continue supporting Ceece’s mission of publishing diverse and inclusive voices while expanding its reach and resources within the Lerner family.”

“After years of rapid growth, I am excited to pass the torch to Lerner Publishing Group, a company that shares my passion for empowering young readers with stories that matter," Kelley said, “I am confident that Soaring Kite Books will thrive under Lerner’s leadership and continue to build on the foundation we’ve worked so hard to create. This partnership will open new doors for the authors and stories that Soaring Kite Books represents.”