Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Simon & Schuster Publishing, has announced a 4-book deal with Quvenzhané Wallis – three chapter book series, and a picture book.
The yet-to-be-titled chapter book series launches in January 2017, followed by the second chapter book and the picture book in Fall 2017. The third chapter book is scheduled for Summer 2018.
Illustrators for the series and the picture book are yet to be selected.
Loosely based on the author’s own experiences, Miss Wallis’s picture book follows a spunky young heroine who is very much looking forward to a night out with her mom at an awards show. The duo has a grand time getting dressed up, riding in a limo, and walking the red carpet.
Meanwhile, a precocious and talented third grader is the star of Miss Wallis’s chapter book series. The books follow Shai Williams, a star in the making, who has a flair for the dramatic – both onstage and off.
Both the chapter book series and the picture book will be for readers ages six and up.
“Reading is very important,” said Wallis in the press statement. “It allows people to form a visual experience in their minds of what is going on in the story. I hope all readers enjoy using their imaginations along with me and take a journey into my books.”
Christian Trimmer, Executive Editor of Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers added: “I’m thrilled that Quvenzhané is turning her estimable abilities to books. Her dedication to great storytelling is readily apparent. Readers of all ages are in for a big treat.”
“The characters Quvenzhané has portrayed have an alluring mix of self-possession and vulnerability,” adds Dawn Davis, Vice President and Publisher of 37 INK, a division of Atria, who jointly acquired (along with Simon & Schuster) world rights to Ms. Wallis upcoming 4 books. “We look forward to her bringing that same electric combination to the page. We also hope these books will help expand the diverse array of voices in the children’s book space.”
Wallis, who was last seen in “Annie” last Christmas holiday season, will next appear in “Fathers and Daughters,” and “Counting by 7s” – neither has a release date set.
article by Tambay A. Benson via blogs.indiewire.com
