16 February

Rick Warren Signs Book Deal with Zondervan Books, Warren’s First Trade Book in a Decade Releases This April  

NASHVILLE, Tenn., February 14, 2023 — Zondervan Books, an imprint of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, announces a book deal with The Purpose Driven Life bestselling author and pastor Rick Warren. Warren’s first trade book in a decade, Created to Dream: The 6 Phases God Uses to Grow Your Faith, will publish on April 11, 2023. World rights were acquired by Zondervan Books VP and Publisher, Webster Younce.

“We are thrilled that Rick Warren is returning to publishing with a message that will provide readers with much-needed hope as they develop a deeper understanding of God’s dream for their lives. In a time when many feel overwhelmed and over-burdened, the message of Created to Dream could not be more timely and important.” – Webster Younce, Zondervan Books VP and Publisher 

In Created to Dream, Warren helps readers understand how God uses six phases of faith to grow their spiritual maturity while fulfilling the dreams he gives them. Each phase is a test of faith that allows readers to stop wondering if God has forgotten them and begin working with him toward all he has dreamed up for their future. 

“When God wants to work in your life, he gives you a dream about what he wants you to do and the impact he wants you to have in the world.”  – Rick Warren, Created to Dream 

Through discussing Scripture and Warren’s lived experience, Created to Dream meets readers where they are in the process of seeing God’s dream for their lives come to fruition. From the dream to decision to delays to difficulties to dead ends and to deliverance, Warren guides readers through each pivotal stage by providing them with hope, guidance on how to pray, and more. It’s a book people will revisit over and over because dreams are not a one-time experience.  

Zondervan is a HarperCollins company and part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing. Zondervan is a worldwide leading publisher and provider of Christian communications. The company’s products are sold worldwide and translated into nearly 200 languages. Zondervan offices are located in Grand Rapids, Mich. For additional information, please visit www.zondervan.com

Media Contact:

Devin Duke 

Senior Publicity Manager, Zondervan Books 

[email protected]  

10 January

ZONDERKIDZ TO PUBLISH BRYSON THE BRAVE BISON; NEW BOOK ON BRAVERY WILL HELP KIDS FACE 2023 WITH COURAGE

Bryson the Brave Bison: Finding the Courage to Face the Storm releases June 27, 2023 

Grand Rapids, MI – January 10, 2023 – Zonderkidz is pleased to announce a new picture book from debut authors Nate Davenport and Luke Freshwater titled, Bryson the Brave Bison: Finding the Courage to Face the Storm releasing June 27, 2023 with illustrations from New York Times bestselling illustrator Richard Cowdrey.  

Author Luke Freshwater
Author Nate Davenport

This inspiring picture book ideal for children ages 4 – 8 focuses on a bison that faces a terrible storm and helps his bison friends to be brave and learn to face the storm. It’s rollicking rhyme tells a fascinating story for kids that’s based on how real bison intentionally run straight through oncoming storms rather than turning and running away.  

“Both Nate and I are committed to building brave kids and families intentionally; we are friends and fathers who love to collaborate on projects that inspire families,” said Luke Freshwater, who served as a former Army bomb squad leader in Afghanistan.  “We are thrilled that Zonderkidz caught the vision for this book: encouraging kids to be fearless and have the  courage to be leaders.”  

Nate Davenport adds, “In this world of challenges, we all need a hero, and here is a lovable character we created that shows his entire bison herd that you can get through anything with a little bravery and self-confidence. Courage is a choice and it’s in all of us.”      

“Richard Cowdrey, illustrator of the Zonderkidz Fiona the Hippo series of books, introduced us to Nate and Luke, and we were so taken with their message and with Richard’s early sketches of this brave bison. This book is a fun, humorous take on the way bison behave when faced with storms, but with a solid message about character and bravery that will resonate so well with children and their families, as well as with teachers and librarians,” says Megan Dobson, Vice President and Publisher of Zonderkidz.  

“Their path through the storm seemed awful at best,  

But Bryson the Brave was up to the test. 

He carried them through – he went all the way,  

And his story of courage is still told today!” 

About the Authors: 

Nate Davenport resides in Huntington, West Virginia, whose city mascot is the bison! He and his wife have two children. Nate’s passion for literature and writing comes from his father who is also an author. He is a youth ministry graduate of Cedarville University in Ohio, where he first met co-author Luke Freshwater. He currently works as a sales leader in the medical space. 

Luke Freshwater resides in the greater Columbus, Ohio area with his wife and five children. He is an aspiring bison farmer and is currently a sales leader. Luke served as a forest firefighter in Idaho and as an Army bomb squad leader in the war in Afghanistan. He went to NC State University and Cedarville, where he played baseball with his co-author Nate Davenport. 

About the Illustrator: 

Richard Cowdrey is the New York Times bestselling author and illustrator of the beloved picture book series Fiona the Hippo, based on the world’s most famous hippo, Fiona of the Cincinnati Zoo. His favorite things to do are to draw and paint the things that reflect the awesomeness of creation. Richard’s fine attention to detail attracts fans to his books, like Legend of the Candy Cane; Bad Dog, Marley and all of the Fiona the Hippo picture books. He resides outside of Mt. Vernon, Ohio with his wife.  

The book is now available for pre-orders wherever books are sold. Advance copies of the book and interviews are available upon request; please contact Publicity Director Jessica Westra at [email protected]

Bison the Brave Bison: Finding the Courage to Face the Storm 

Authored by Nate Davenport & Luke Freshwater 

Illustrated by Richard Cowdrey (Fiona the Hippo)  

Hardcover w/Jacket, $18.99  

9780310153108 
On Sale June 27, 2023 

www.brysonthebison.com 

### 

Zonderkidz™, the children’s division of Zondervan, inspires young lives through imaginative, innovative and educational resources that represent a Christian worldview and build up God’s children and teens. For additional information, please visit www.zonderkidz.com.  

Zondervan is a world-leading Bible publisher and provider of Christian communications. Zondervan, as part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., delivers transformational Christian experiences through its bestselling Bibles, books, curriculum, academic resources and digital products. The Company’s products are sold worldwide and translated into nearly 200 languages. Zondervan’s offices are located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. For additional information, please visit www.zondervan.com

20 December

Zondervan welcomes Paul J. Pastor as the new senior acquisitions editor for Zondervan Books

(Nashville, TN) December 20, 2022 —Zondervan today announced that on December 27, 2022, Paul J. Pastor will join the company as senior acquisitions editor for Zondervan Books, a nonfiction trade book imprint. Zondervan Books is the home to multiple award-winning books and bestselling authors including Rick Warren, Shauna Niequist, Craig Groeschel, Lee Strobel, and Rebekah Lyons. Pastor joins the company from WaterBrook & Multnomah where he was able to work with New York Times bestselling authors as well as emerging and influential voices in Christianity. Pastor has nearly 15 years of experience in working within the publishing industry, specifically editing, writing, and consulting with authors and clients such as The Bible Project, Christianity Today, Outreach, Fuller Seminary, and The Luis Palau Association.

As the new senior acquisitions editor for Zondervan Books, Pastor will help identify, acquire, and develop new captivating authors for the imprint’s portfolio. Pastor commented, “I could not be more thrilled to join Zondervan’s world-class team, and look forward to working hard and partnering with some of our day’s best Christian authors to publish well-crafted books of significant impact.”

Pastor holds an MA in Biblical and theological studies from Western Seminary, and is also the author of multiple books. His writing has won over a dozen Evangelical Press Association awards, a prestigious Maggie award, numerous awards from Christianity Today’s book awards, and other accolades.

“Paul’s unique combination of editorial vision, knowledge of craft, varied publishing experience, and heart for our mission will make a significant and immediate impact,” remarked Webster Younce, VP and publisher of Zondervan Books. “We are delighted to have him join the team.”

Zondervan

Zondervan, a worldwide leading Christian publisher of books and Bibles, is part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc. Its publications include a variety of Bible translations for all ages; books in different  genres and subject areas for the general reader; curriculum for individual and group Bible study; books for children and young adults; academic resources including textbooks and reference books; ministry resources; and books on faith and culture. Zondervan is based in Grand Rapids, MI.  For more information, visit www.zondervan.com.

Media Contact:

Casey Harrell

VP, Corporate Communications

[email protected]

09 December

Zondervan receives five recognitions in the 2022 Book Awards from The Gospel Coalition 

(Nashville, Tenn.) December 9, 2022 —This week, Zondervan received five recognitions at the 2022 Book Awards from The Gospel Coalition.  Four titles were considered best overall in their category and one received an award of distinction.  The company congratulates its authors and the Zondervan Academic and Zondervan Reflective publishing imprints for this honor. According to the announcement from The Gospel Coalition, these awards are presented annually and are selected by editors at The Gospel Coalition and outside judges using four criteria. 

Book Award winners should:

  • offer gospel-centered argument and application; 
  • include faithful and foundational use of Scripture, both Old Testament and New Testament; 
  • foster spiritual discernment of contemporary trials and trends; and 
  • encourage efforts to unite and renew the church. 

Award-winning Zondervan titles are: 

Categorical Winners 

  • Public Theology & Current Events – Biblical Critical Theory: How the Bible’s Unfolding Story Makes Sense of Modern Life and Culture written by Christopher Watkin – (Zondervan Academic) 
  • Ministry – Bully Pulpit: Confronting the Problem of Spiritual Abuse in the Church written by Michael J. Kruger – (Zondervan Reflective) 
  • First-Time Author – Talking About Race: Gospel Hope for Hard Conversations written byIsaac Adams – (Zondervan Reflective) 
  • Arts & Culture – Rembrandt Is in the Wind: Learning to Love Art Through the Eyes of Faith written byRuss Ramsey – (Zondervan Reflective) 

Award of Distinction 

  • Academic Theology – Typology: Understanding the Bible’s Promise-Shaped Patterns written by James M. Hamilton Jr. – (Zondervan Academic) 

“I congratulate our authors—Michael Kruger, Russ Ramsey, and Isaac Adams—and celebrate this recognition of their excellent work.  We’re so pleased to have three awards from Zondervan Reflective this year, representing such diverse topics,” remarked Ryan Pazdur, VP publisher ofZondervan Reflective.

Katya Covrett, VP publisher of Zondervan Academic, commented, “I am delighted to congratulate Dr. Christopher Watkin for the honor of a TGC Book Award and James M. Hamilton Jr. on his Award of Distinction. We are thrilled to see these works recognized for their groundbreaking impact on Christian engagement with contemporary life and culture.”

To learn about Zondervan Reflective, visit https://www.zondervan.com/zondervanreflective/. 

To learn about Zondervan Academic, visit www.zondervan.com/zondervanacademic/

Zondervan  

Zondervan, a worldwide leading Christian publisher of books and Bibles, is part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc. Its publications include a variety of Bible translations for all ages; books in different genres and subject areas for the general reader; curriculum for individual and group Bible study; books for children and young adults; academic resources including textbooks and reference books; ministry resources; and books on faith and culture. Zondervan is based in Grand Rapids, MI. For more information, visit www.zondervan.com.  

(Nashville, Tenn.) December 9, 2022 —This week, Zondervan received five recognitions at the 2022 Book Awards from The Gospel Coalition.  Four titles were considered best overall in their category and one received an award of distinction.  The company congratulates its authors and the Zondervan Academic and Zondervan Reflective publishing imprints for this honor. According to the announcement from The Gospel Coalition, these awards are presented annually and are selected by editors at The Gospel Coalition and outside judges using four criteria. 

Book Award winners should:

  • offer gospel-centered argument and application; 
  • include faithful and foundational use of Scripture, both Old Testament and New Testament; 
  • foster spiritual discernment of contemporary trials and trends; and 
  • encourage efforts to unite and renew the church. 

Award-winning Zondervan titles are: 

Categorical Winners 

  • Public Theology & Current Events – Biblical Critical Theory: How the Bible’s Unfolding Story Makes Sense of Modern Life and Culture written by Christopher Watkin – (Zondervan Academic) 
  • Ministry – Bully Pulpit: Confronting the Problem of Spiritual Abuse in the Church written by Michael J. Kruger – (Zondervan Reflective) 
  • First-Time Author – Talking About Race: Gospel Hope for Hard Conversations written byIsaac Adams – (Zondervan Reflective) 
  • Arts & Culture – Rembrandt Is in the Wind: Learning to Love Art Through the Eyes of Faith written byRuss Ramsey – (Zondervan Reflective) 

Award of Distinction 

  • Academic Theology – Typology: Understanding the Bible’s Promise-Shaped Patterns written by James M. Hamilton Jr. – (Zondervan Academic) 

“I congratulate our authors—Michael Kruger, Russ Ramsey, and Isaac Adams—and celebrate this recognition of their excellent work.  We’re so pleased to have three awards from Zondervan Reflective this year, representing such diverse topics,” remarked Ryan Pazdur, VP publisher ofZondervan Reflective.

Katya Covrett, VP publisher of Zondervan Academic, commented, “I am delighted to congratulate Dr. Christopher Watkin for the honor of a TGC Book Award and James M. Hamilton Jr. on his Award of Distinction. We are thrilled to see these works recognized for their groundbreaking impact on Christian engagement with contemporary life and culture.”

To learn about Zondervan Reflective, visit https://www.zondervan.com/zondervanreflective/. 

To learn about Zondervan Academic, visit www.zondervan.com/zondervanacademic/

Zondervan  

Zondervan, a worldwide leading Christian publisher of books and Bibles, is part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc. Its publications include a variety of Bible translations for all ages; books in different genres and subject areas for the general reader; curriculum for individual and group Bible study; books for children and young adults; academic resources including textbooks and reference books; ministry resources; and books on faith and culture. Zondervan is based in Grand Rapids, MI. For more information, visit www.zondervan.com.  

07 October

Katya Covrett named v-p, publisher for Zondervan’s acclaimed academic imprint  

(Grand Rapids, Mich.) October 7, 2022 — Today, Zondervan announced the promotion of Katya Covrett to vice president, publisher for the publishing group’s academic imprint, Zondervan Academic. Covrett, who has been serving the imprint as associate publisher for the past year, will lead the acquisition, editorial development, and overall title strategy moving forward.

Covrett has more than 20 years of editorial experience at Zondervan, specifically focusing on academic, ministry, and reference books. Throughout her tenure, Covrett has been part of the editorial team responsible for works including The Story of God Bible Commentary series edited by Tremper Longman III and Scot McKnight, The New Testament in Its World by N. T. Wright and Michael F. Bird, and The Mission of God’s People by Christopher J. H. Wright. Her institutional pedigree includes a Bachelor of Arts in English linguistics from Khabarovsk State Pedagogical University, a Master of Theological Studies from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary in systematic theology and biblical studies and she is now a PhD candidate in the New Testament at the University of Aberdeen.  

“Katya has already proven herself in all areas of the publishing industry and she is greatly appreciated by her colleagues and the authors she works with,” commented Stan Gundry, senior v-p, Group Publisher, and Zondervan editor-in-chief. “She brings extensive publishing experience, impressive academic credentials, and a passion for her work. I look forward to seeing the ways Zondervan Academic develops under her leadership.”  

Covrett remarked, “I am thankful to the company’s leadership for the recognition of the work I have invested in our academic program over the past twenty years. I feel a deep personal resonance with the mission of Zondervan Academic—to reflect the breadth, both theological and global, of the great Christian tradition and the diversity of the worldwide Body of Christ. In this new role, I look forward to continued partnership with the scholarly community, with my authors and my colleagues to create excellent books in service of the academy and the church worldwide.”  

To learn more about Zondervan Academic, visit www.zondervan.com/zondervanacademic/.  

Zondervan 

Zondervan, a worldwide leading Christian publisher of books and Bibles, is part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc. Its publications include a variety of Bible translations for all ages; books in different genres and subject areas for the general reader; curriculum for individual and group Bible study; books for children and young adults; academic resources including textbooks and reference books; ministry resources; and books on faith and culture. Zondervan is based in Grand Rapids, MI. For more information, visit www.zondervan.com.

Media Contact:

Casey Harrell

Vice President, Corporate Communications 

[email protected]

06 October

ZONDERKIDZ BOOK I’M SO GLAD YOU WERE BORN BY AINSLEY EARHARDT HITS #1 ON NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER LIST

Grand Rapids, MI – October 6, 2022 – The Zonderkidz title, I’m So Glad You Were
Born
authored by FOX & Friends co-host Ainsley Earhardt received #1 status on the New York
Times
bestseller list for Children’s Picture Books for the October 16 issue. The book released
September 27, 2022 with Earhardt appearing on numerous FOX programs, doing a full national
media tour and personal appearances in several cities around the country such as Nashville, Salt Lake City, and Ponte Vedra, Florida.


“Our team at Zonderkidz is elated about this #1 status for this special book,” says Zonderkidz
Vice President and Publisher Megan Dobson. “Ainsley’s heart for sharing this important and
needed message with children has shown since our first conversations together, and it’s been
amazing to watch this book already reach so many children and their families. We’re so grateful
for Ainsley and the teams at FOX and CAA for helping us inspire young lives and get the word
out about I’m So Glad You Were Born. We’re excited to keep on sharing this message of love to
even more children, celebrating who they are and the plans God has for them.”


Earhardt shared the bestseller news with viewers of FOX & Friends this morning and on her
Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/p/CjX2IisDHNL/


Dedicated to her daughter Hayden, this book is meant to be shared with children to remind
them that they were created to be extraordinary and treasured.


“My mother always told us on our birthdays each year how glad she was that we were born—and
now I love saying that to my daughter, Hayden,” said Earhardt, during her book announcement
this spring. “This book celebrates all the reasons we are so glad our children are born and how
special they are. It reminds children they have a purpose, there’s a plan for their life, that God
loves them and they are worthy of having a wonderful life. This book is about noticing the traits
that make a child special, and I hope it helps parents, grandparents, and caregivers to slow down and take the time to tell the children in their lives how grateful and appreciative they are for all the special things that make a child who they are.”


Ainsley Earhardt is now the author of four New York Times bestsellers, including three #1 children’s picture book bestsellers as of October 2022. She hosts a Bible Study with Fox Nation and has over one million followers on her social media platforms combined. Earhardt has been a co-host on the popular FOX & Friends morning show since 2016.


Visit https://books.ainsleye.com/ for information about the book.


For more information, please contact Zonderkidz Publicity Director Jessica Westra at
[email protected] or Velvet Kelm at [email protected].

Hardcover w/Jacket, $18.99 – 9780310777021
(eBook, $14.99 – 9780310776673, audio book read by the author, with bonus
material and interview)
32 pages, 10 x 10 spot UV, foil
Ages 4 – 8
Now Available Anywhere Books Are Sold

Zonderkidz™, the children’s division of Zondervan, inspires young lives through imaginative, innovative and educational resources that represent a Christian worldview and build up God’s children and teens. For additional information, please visit www.zonderkidz.com.


Zondervan is a world-leading Bible publisher and provider of Christian communications. Zondervan, as part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., delivers transformational Christian experiences through its bestselling Bibles, books, curriculum, academic resources and digital products. The Company’s products are sold worldwide and translated into nearly 200 languages. Zondervan’s offices are located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. For additional information, please visit www.zondervan.com.

Media Contact:
Jessica Westra
Director of Publicity, Zonderkidz
[email protected]
616.403.6628

23 September

ZONDERKIDZ TO PUBLISH BROADCASTER RAYMOND ARROYO’S NEW
CHILDREN’S PICTURE BOOK SERIES, TURNABOUT TALES

The Unexpected Light of Thomas Alva Edison releases March 2023

Grand Rapids, MI – September 23, 2022 – Zonderkidz is pleased to announce that New
York Times
bestselling author, broadcast journalist and producer Raymond Arroyo will publish
a new children’s picture book series titled Turnabout Tales, with the first book arriving in stores
on March 21, 2023, titled The Unexpected Light of Thomas Alva Edison. Illustrated by Kristina
Gehrmann, the book will be for children 4-8 and beyond who will enjoy learning how small
moments and events in one’s life can create a big change, much like Edison’s life did.

Based on the younger years of inventor Thomas Alva Edison, the book highlights the support of
his mother, Nancy Edison, who understood Thomas had a special curiosity and went on to
school him at home to help expand his worldview and understanding of all things nature and
science. Edison’s curiosity often got him into trouble, but also led to his love of chemistry, the
mechanics of the telegraph and more. His struggle with deafness at an early age also compelled
him to become a compulsive reader. Edison’s mother was his biggest advocate, and he opened
up an “invention factory” in 1876 to honor her after her unexpected death.

The Turnabout Tales series will feature pivotal moments in other historic lives, each revealing
challenges faced, paths changed and history turned. More books will be announced later in 2023. This series was acquired by Zonderkidz Publisher Megan Dobson and Senior Acquisitions
Editor Katherine Jacobs, from agent Chip Flaherty of Bamtrey Strategies.

Zonderkidz is happy to bring these unique stories from Raymond to a wide audience who will
appreciate history and the hidden backstories of characters that can inspire children and their
families even today,” says Megan Dobson, Vice President and Publisher of Zonderkidz. “We seek
to highlight tales that bring light and joy while also delivering inspiring yet little-known stories
that bring history to life for kids in an all-new, fun way. Acquiring this series fits perfectly within
our mission.”

“We often forget that talent is nurtured by love and belief. I was drawn to Edison when I read a
comment where he attributed his entire career as an inventor to his mother,” says Arroyo, host
of the global news program The World Over Live on EWTN, and a Fox News Contributor. “At a
critical point, when he was tossed from school, it was Edison’s mother who recognized his spark
and changed the trajectory of his life. My hope is that the whole series will inspire kids and their
families to be open to the direction of their children’s gifts and interests. Often it is by looking
back that we can see the best way to go forward –and that’s what I hope to do with Turnabout
Tales
.”

The book includes an author note and bibliography for further reading. A Teaching Guide and
Activity Guide will also be available for free download to parents and educators at
www.zonderkidz.com.

“…the light of the invention within Tom might have never illuminated the world, had it not been
for a mother who first saw the glow of curiosity in her Al.” – The Unexpected Light of Thomas
Alva Edison

ABOUT THE BOOK:
The Unexpected Light of Thomas Alva Edison
By New York Times bestselling author Raymond Arroyo
Illustrated by Kristina Gehrmann
Hardcover w/Jacket, $17.99
9780310799238
March 21, 2023 On Sale

Advance copies of the book and interviews are available upon request; a multi-city media tour in
several U.S. cities in the spring featuring visits to media and schools is in process. Please contact
Publicity Director Jessica Westra at [email protected] for more information.

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING:
“This moving, hidden story of one of our great inventors, in Raymond Arroyo’s skillful hands,
becomes a lesson in the power of love and family. This Turnabout Tale will touch any parent
who has ever defended or encouraged their child and inspire any student who has been
underestimated. There’s true light in this tale.” – Kathie Lee Gifford, Best-selling author and
4-time Emmy award winning entertainer

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Raymond Arroyo is an internationally known, award-winning journalist, producer, and New
York Times
bestselling author. As a Fox News Contributor and Editorial Advisor to the top rated, The Ingraham Angle, he has created the popular “Seen and Unseen” and “Friday Follies”
segments that have become audience favorites. He regularly files reports for Fox News and
appears across the network.

As founding News Director, Managing Editor and Lead Anchor for EWTN News, he is seen in
more than 350 million homes on six continents each week and heard on more than 500 AM/FM
affiliates and a stand alone Sirius channel throughout the U.S. Arroyo established EWTN News
and The World Over Live in 1996, which he hosts from Washington D.C. each week.
Known for his penetrating interviews, Arroyo has interrogated the leading figures of the day.

Highlights include: The first exclusive, sit down interview with Mel Gibson about his film, “The
Passion of the Christ”; Mother Teresa of Calcutta; Placido Domingo; Presidents George W. Bush
and Donald Trump, a groundbreaking interview with comic legend, Jerry Lewis, and the first
and only English language interview with Pope Benedict XVI.

Before coming to EWTN, Arroyo worked for the Associated Press, The New York Observer and
the political columnist team of Evans and Novak. Arroyo is a graduate of New York University’s
Tisch School of the Arts. He has acted and directed in New York and London.

In addition to his work at EWTN, Arroyo has appeared on The Today Show, Good Morning
America
, CNN Headline News, Access Hollywood, and NPR. His work has appeared in the Wall
Street Journal
, The Financial Times, Newsweek, Time Magazine, The New Yorker, and
elsewhere.

Five of his adult books, including his biography of Mother Angelica, were all New York Times
bestsellers. His first picture book, The Spider Who Saved Christmas, was also a New York
Times
bestseller. Additionally, he is author of the bestselling Will Wilder series for young
readers. In 2015, Arroyo founded Storyented.com, a literacy initiative to inspire reading by
connecting the world’s great authors and their readers. Arroyo resides in New Orleans and
Washington D.C. with his wife Rebecca and their three children.

https://raymondarroyo.com/
https://twitter.com/raymondarroyo
https://www.facebook.com/ArroyoRaymond
Literary Initiative: storyented.com

Zonderkidz™, the children’s division of Zondervan, inspires young lives through
imaginative, innovative and educational resources that represent a Christian worldview and
build up God’s children and teens. For additional information, please visit
www.zonderkidz.com.

Zondervan is a world-leading Bible publisher and provider of Christian communications.
Zondervan, as part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., delivers transformational
Christian experiences through its bestselling Bibles, books, curriculum, academic resources and
digital products. The Company’s products are sold worldwide and translated into nearly 200
languages. Zondervan’s offices are located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. For additional
information, please visit www.zondervan.com.

Media Contact:
Jessica Westra
Director of Publicity, Zonderkidz
[email protected]
616.403.6628


13 September

Internet Sensation Fiona the Hippo Celebrates Love at the Zoo with New Picture Book from Zonderkidz  

Fiona Love at the Zoo releases November 15 and highlights the affections of Zoo animal families 

Exclusive pre-order print features Fiona and her new sibling, Fritz 

Grand Rapids, MI — September 13 — Zonderkidz, the children’s division of Zondervan, will release a new illustrated picture book in November in partnership with the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, one of the top zoos in the nation. Fiona Love at the Zoo features artwork from New York Times bestselling illustrator and Cincinnati native, Richard Cowdrey. 

This is the sixth picture book from Zonderkidz featuring the world’s most famous hippo. The New York Times bestselling Fiona the Hippo picture book was a hit with Fiona fans around the globe. Fiona is a worldwide internet sensation and the star of the Cincinnati Zoo, thanks to her spunk and the fighting spirit that helped her overcome all odds when she was born six weeks premature.  She is now over 5 years old and much heavier than her 29-pound birthweight! 

To celebrate the book, a free, exclusive pre-order print from Zonderkidz is available to the first 500 fans who order the book from their favorite retailer prior to November 15, 2022 and fill out the form on here. The 5×7 colored print, drawn by Fiona book illustrator Richard Cowdrey, shows Fiona lovingly snuggling with new baby brother, Fritz. Suitable for framing, the print highlights Fiona with the new baby hippo who was born this August to much fanfare worldwide.    

In the latest book, Fiona is illustrated discovering how her animal friends at the Zoo have lots of little ways of showing affection to each other – like wrapping necks as giraffes do, swans water-dancing, seals booping noses, and peacocks striking dramatic poses.  

“This book is a celebration of love, and the timing couldn’t be more perfect as the Cincinnati Zoo recently welcomed Fritz into their hippo “bloat” family,” says Megan Dobson, VP and publisher of Zonderkidz. “We appreciate working alongside the Zoo and helping them support their mission. And yes, Fiona the Hippo fans should be delighted to know that Fritz will be in an upcoming book in 2023…so stay tuned!”   

About the book: 

Fiona Love at the Zoo

www.fionathehippobook.com 

Fiona Love at the Zoo 

Illustrated by Richard Cowdrey 

On sale November 15, 2022  

$18.99 Ages 4 – 8 

9780310770855  

From Zonderkidz, a division of Zondervan, a HarperCollins company 

For pre-order print

About the Illustrator: Richard Cowdrey is well known for illustrating many beautiful children’s picture books, including the New York Times bestseller Fiona the Hippo and Bad Dog, Marley! Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Cowdrey graduated from The Columbus College of Art and Design. Richard’s love for family and nature overflows into his illustrations which are enjoyed by children around the world. The artist lives in Ohio with his wife and has four grown children and five grandchildren. When not painting in his studio, Richard enjoys visiting schools to share with children his love of illustration.  Richard is available for interviews, school visits and store and library story time events about Fiona. 

About the Hippo:  Fiona was born January 24, 2017, six weeks before her due date. At 29 pounds she was very small for a Nile hippo. The whole world watched as Fiona learned to walk, eat and swim. Her challenges were big, but her spunk and incredible will helped her prevail time and again. Since her birth, millions of people from around the world have been pulling for Fiona to keep fighting. As she grew older, so did her social media following.     

#FionatheHippo #TeamFiona #FionatheHippobook #Zonderkidz 

About the Zoo:  The world-famous Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is committed to inspiring visitors to care about wildlife and wild places.  It has been rated the #1 attraction locally and one of the top zoos in the nation by Zagat Survey.  It has also received rave reviews from Child Magazine, Parents Magazine, USA Today and TripAdvisor. Over 1.6 million people visit the Zoo’s award-winning habitats, and more than 500 animal and 3000 plant species annually. 

About us: Zonderkidz™, the children’s division of Zondervan, inspires young lives through imaginative, innovative, and educational resources that represent a Christian worldview and build up God’s children and teens. For additional information, please visit www.zonderkidz.com

Zondervan is part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc.  The company’s products are sold worldwide and translated into nearly 200 languages.  For additional information, please visit www.zondervan.com 

Media Contact:

Jessica Westra

Publicity Director, Zonderkidz

[email protected]

616-698-3208

27 July

ZONDERKIDZ AUTHOR, FOX & FRIENDS CO-HOST AINSLEY EARHARDT ANNOUNCES BOOK TOUR APPEARANCES

I’m So Glad You Were Born by #1 New York Times bestselling author Earhardt releases September 27, 2022

Grand Rapids, MI – July 27, 2022 – Zonderkidz author and FOX & Friends co-host Ainsley Earhardt will be on tour this fall sharing about her new picture book, I’m So Glad You Were Born. Tickets for the following events are now available for purchase:

Tuesday, September 27, at 3 pm ET, Live Signing, nationwide virtual event, in conversation with Caitlin Houston. https://livesigning.com/soglad

Wednesday, September 28, at 7 pm ET, Norwalk, CT at the Wall Street Theatre, in conversation with Megan Alexander. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ainsley-earhardt-im-so-glad-you-were-born-tickets-376730339587

Friday, September 30, at 6:30 pm ET, Charleston, SC at the Charleston Museum, in conversation with Leyla Gulen. https://www.citypapertickets.com/events/127060122/ainsley-earhardt-book-release

Sunday, October 2, at 2 pm ET, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, at the Ponte Vedra Beach Concert Hall, in conversation with Sean Hannity. https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/22005CF5E07EC7D7

Each ticket purchased will include a signed book. Additional tour appearances are being considered. Visit https://books.ainsleye.com to see all the information as it is updated.

The virtual “Live Signing” with Earhardt will take place for those fans who cannot travel and want to receive a signed copy of the book, on Tuesday, September 27 at 3 pm ET. Earhardt will appear on Facebook and talk about her experiences as a mother and how the book came together, while signing copies for fans.

Dedicated to her daughter Hayden, this book is meant to be shared with children to remind them just how thankful you are they are in your life and that they were created to be extraordinary. The book releases Tuesday, September 27 and is available for pre-order anywhere books are sold.

“My mother always told us on our birthdays each year how glad she was that we were born—and now I love saying that to my daughter, Hayden,” said Earhardt, during her book announcement this spring. “This book celebrates all the reasons we are so glad our children are born and how special they are. It reminds children they have a purpose, there’s a plan for their life, that God loves them and they are worthy of having a wonderful life. This book is about noticing the traits that make a child special, and I hope it helps parents, grandparents, and caregivers to slow down and take the time to tell the children in their lives how grateful and appreciative they are for all the special things that make a child who they are.”

Ainsley Earhardt is the author of three New York Times bestsellers, including two #1 children’s bestsellers, Through Your Eyes and Take Heart, My Child. She hosts a Bible Study with Fox Nation and has over one million followers on her social media platforms combined. Earhardt has been a co-host on the popular FOX & Friends morning show since 2016.

For more information, please contact Zonderkidz Publicity Director Jessica Westra at [email protected] or Velvet Kelm at [email protected].

Hardcover w/Jacket, $18.99 – 9780310777021

(eBook, $14.99 – 9780310776673, audio book to be read by author)

32 pages, 10 x 10 spot UV, foil

Ages 4 – 8

9.27.22 On Sale

I’m So Glad You Were Born
Ainsley Earhardt

Media Contact:
Jessica Westra
Director of Publicity, Zonderkidz
[email protected]

21 July

ZONDERKIDZ TO PUBLISH BOOK FROM “DAILY AFFIRMATIONS WITH SCARLETT” MOTHER-DAUGHTER DUO

I’m Going to Have a Good Day! book from viral video stars Scarlett Gray and Tiania Haneline releases January 24, 2023

Grand Rapids, MI – July 21, 2022 – Zonderkidz is pleased to announce that TikTok and YouTube sensations Scarlett Gray and Tiania Haneline will publish their first book together, titled I’m Going to Have a Good Day!, illustrated by Stephanie Dehennin, on January 24, 2023.

This uplifting book for kids ages 4-8 will teach kids that by reciting daily affirmations, they will be able to replace negative thoughts with positive ones, similar to how 5-year-old Scarlett and her mom Tiania have inspired millions around the world. The mother-daughter duo have been recording their affirmation routine while Tiania does Scarlett’s hair since 2020, garnering millions of fans on TikTok (5.8 million followers, with 247 million likes) and other media platforms.

“When our team first learned of Tiania and Scarlett through their videos on social media, we were so charmed by them both and drawn to their practice of daily affirmations,” says Megan Dobson, Vice President and Publisher of Zonderkidz. “It’s been a privilege to partner with them to create I’m Going to Have a Good Day!, and share a story that highlights the powerful impact daily affirmations can have on children, building their self-esteem and reminding them how truly special and loved they are. We hope so many families are inspired by this book to begin their own practice of daily affirmations with their children.”

The book is now available for pre-order anywhere books are sold. Scarlett and Tiania shared news about the book on their social platforms. Tour dates and appearances with Scarlett and Tiania will be announced this fall. A full-scale marketing, digital and publicity campaign for the book is in process.

Advance review copies will be available upon request; please contact Publicity Director Jessica Westra at [email protected].

ABOUT THE BOOK:

I’m Going to Have a Good Day! Written by Tiania Haneline with Scarlett Gray

Hardcover w/Jacket, $18.99

978-0310771296

40 pages

On sale January 24, 2023

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

Tiania Haneline and Scarlett Gray Smith make up one of TikTok’s most positive (and self-love-centric) mother/daughter duos. The East Coast-based pair is well-known for their sweet affirmation videos, with their most viral moments attracting the attention of Good Morning America, POPSUGAR, USA Today and more. Growing up in an affirming household herself, Tiania was determined to pass the same values onto Scarlett and her two sons, Walker and Reice. She began repeating affirmations with Scarlett while doing her hair every morning, teaching her to embrace the beauty of her skin, curls, kindness and every trait in between. With the power of TikTok, Tiania and Scarlett are spreading that joy and self-love to an audience of more than four million.

TikTok: Scarlett and Tiania (@scarlettandtiania) Official TikTok | Watch Scarlett and Tiania’s Newest TikTok Videos

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ScarlettGraySmith

Instagram: Tiania and Scarlett (@scarlettandtiania) • Instagram photos and videos

Website: www.scarlettandtiania.com

I’m Going to Have a Good Day!
Scarlett and Tiania

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jessica Westra

Director of Publicity, Zonderkidz

[email protected]