Mother and daughter are getting into the book biz…
First Lady Laura Bush and daughter Jenna Bush have agreed to write a, as yet untitled, children’s book for HarperCollins, it was announced today.
The book centers around a mischievous little boy who has little interest in reading. However, he eventually comes to love books, thanks to the guidance of his teacher. You’ll recall that both Laura and Jenna are former teachers and the book is loosely based on their experiences.
Mrs. Bush noted, “I am delighted to have the opportunity to partner with one of my favorite teachers, my daughter Jenna, to write a children’s book—and to have it illustrated by the wonderfully talented artist, Denise Brunkus.”
“My mom has been my lifelong inspiration, sharing her love of reading and books with Barbara and me since we were little girls,” said Jenna Bush. “I’ve taken that passion into the classroom. I hope this book will help kids realize the importance and fun that reading can add to their daily lives.”
The book will be published in both English and Spanish in early 2008 and net proceeds — and a portion of the publisher’s proceeds — will benefit Teach for American and the New Teacher Project.
“We are honored to be publishing this wonderful picture book by the First Lady and Jenna Bush, and we know that their experiences as teachers will contribute in so many ways to this project,” said Susan Katz, President and Publisher of HarperCollins Children’s Books. “Mrs. Bush’s lifelong dedication to children and reading inspires us all, and we are delighted to be able to work with Jenna on another book.”
The deal was negotiated by Kate Jackson, SVP/Associate Publisher, Editor-in-Chief of HarperCollins Children’s Books with Washington D.C. attorney Robert B. Barnett.
