Photo credit: www.publishersweekly.com
Lerner Publishing Group Acquires Soaring Kite Books
In a significant development for children’s literature, Lerner Publishing Group has announced its acquisition of Soaring Kite Books, effective January 1. Established in 2020 by marketing executive Ceece Kelley in Washington, D.C., Soaring Kite was created to amplify the voices of underrepresented main characters in children’s literature and to highlight diverse cultural experiences through emerging authors.
Soaring Kite will become the 18th imprint under Lerner Publishing Group. After the acquisition, Kelley is expected to continue her involvement in a consulting role, ensuring her vision for the imprint is upheld during this transition.
The imprint launched its first title, Dear Mama’s Loving Arms, in February 2022, which Kelley authored and Sawyer Cloud illustrated. Additionally, Kelley has penned the Georgie Dupree series aimed at early readers, illustrated by Chloe Guevara. Currently, Soaring Kite offers a catalog of 30 published titles, with four more set to be released in 2025. The range includes board books, picture books, and early reader books, with several titles available in both English and Spanish.
Adam Lerner, CEO and publisher of Lerner Publishing Group, highlighted the impact of Soaring Kite’s titles on young audiences and educators during its initial distribution phase. “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,” he stated in a press release.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the acquisition, Kelley remarked, “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. 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.”
The Future of Soaring Kite Books
This acquisition not only signifies a new chapter for Soaring Kite Books but also underscores the rising demand for diverse children’s literature in the publishing industry. By integrating Soaring Kite into its portfolio, Lerner Publishing Group aims to broaden the accessibility of these culturally rich and inclusive stories, affirming its commitment to fostering diverse voices in literature.
As cultural narratives continue to evolve, the collaboration between Lerner Publishing Group and Soaring Kite is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping a more inclusive literary landscape for young readers.
Source
www.publishersweekly.com