Hachette Book Group brought together educators, librarians, publishing professionals, and authors for its first-ever Tri-State Children’s Book Buzz, an event designed to showcase upcoming children’s and young adult titles from across the company’s publishing imprints.
Held at Hachette’s New York headquarters, the event provided educators and library professionals from across the tri-state area with an exclusive look at forthcoming books and publishing initiatives aimed at inspiring the next generation of readers.
For the first time, multiple Hachette imprints joined forces for a single presentation, including Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, Running Press Kids, Storey Publishing, Union Square Kids, Workman Kids, and WorthyKids. The collaborative showcase highlighted the breadth of Hachette’s children’s publishing program and gave attendees a streamlined opportunity to discover new titles spanning picture books, middle-grade fiction, young adult novels, nonfiction, activity books, and faith-based stories.
Publishing leaders shared insights into upcoming releases and discussed themes expected to resonate with young readers in the coming year. The event also offered attendees the chance to hear directly from several authors whose books are generating excitement across the children’s publishing landscape.
Among the featured speakers were Diana Peterfreund, author of Ellen Poe: The Forgotten Lore from Running Press Kids; actress, comedian, and author Kate Micucci, who discussed The Monster and Puppet Show! from the popular Elephant & Piggie Like Reading series published by Union Square Kids; and Naomi Danis, author of Kindergarten Gets Ready from Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.
A major focus of the event was the importance of encouraging reading among children at a time when reading for pleasure continues to decline nationwide.
Hachette Book Group CEO David Shelley highlighted the company’s social impact initiative, Raising Readers, which seeks to promote reading as a daily habit among children and families.
“We know from various studies that reading for pleasure for even just a few minutes a day is enormously valuable for kids,” Shelley said in a press release. “I’m really excited to be able to showcase some of these books and authors for educators and library professionals, who are crucial in helping kids discover the magic of reading.”
Research consistently shows that reading for enjoyment is one of the strongest predictors of future academic success. Beyond educational outcomes, reading can improve communication skills, emotional well-being, creativity, and confidence.
The event also comes during a milestone year for Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026. For a century, the publisher has produced award-winning and bestselling books that have helped shape generations of readers.
With its inaugural Tri-State Children’s Book Buzz, Hachette Book Group reinforced its commitment to literacy, storytelling, and supporting the educators and librarians who connect young people with books every day.