In an exciting move that further enhances her diverse career portfolio, Jenna Bush Hager has launched a new publishing imprint, paving the way for fresh voices in literature. Announced on a recent episode of the Today show, this venture, branded as Thousand Voices Books in collaboration with Random House Publishing Group, stands as a testament to Hager’s ongoing commitment to the world of books and authorship. This initiative not only reflects her passion but also her desire to facilitate varied narratives in contemporary literature.
At the core of Jenna Bush Hager’s announcement is a genuine love for reading and storytelling, which she describes as a “natural extension” of her existing engagements in the literary landscape. With the new imprint, she aims to discover and spotlight emerging authors across diverse genres, including romance, literary fiction, and memoir, among others. Hager’s statements during the announcement emphasized that this initiative isn’t just a career milestone; it is an opportunity to expand the literary dialogue and embrace a multitude of perspectives—something she deems vital in today’s storytelling environment.
The personal nature of Hager’s transition into publishing deepens the connection readers are likely to feel with her upcoming projects. Sharing her insights with co-anchor Hoda Kotb, Hager expressed her enthusiasm, stating that she is “obsessed” with curating unique voices in literature. This revealing disclosure highlights her intimate relationship with the narratives she hopes to promote, suggesting that each book under Thousand Voices Books will be not just a project but a heartfelt labor of love.
The inaugural release from Thousand Voices Books, titled “Conform” by Ariel Sullivan, is set to roll out in October, marking an ambitious start for the imprint. The narrative’s premise—a dystopian romance—signals Hager’s intention to delve into contemporary themes that resonate deeply with today’s audience. Following this, a slate of additional titles is lined up for 2025, featuring varied genres and narratives that promise to captivate readers.
What sets this initiative apart is its focus on uncovering fresh perspectives from diverse authors globally. Hager expressed a commitment to reading “across genre, across the globe,” which suggests a rigorous selection process aimed at uncovering hidden gems in storytelling. The notion of including hitherto unrecognized voices aligns with an evolving publishing landscape that increasingly values inclusivity and representation.
Having once nurtured a successful book club, “Read With Jenna,” Hager possesses valuable experience in fostering relationships between readers and authors. Through her interactions with literary agents, indie bookstore owners, and a network of engaged readers, she has cultivated a robust understanding of the literary ecosystem. This background provides a sound foundation for her new role as a publisher, where building and nurturing relationships will be paramount to the imprint’s success.
The launch of Thousand Voices Books acts not merely as an individual venture for Hager; it is a conscious effort to enhance the literary community. By serving as a bridge between new authors and potential readers, Hager hopes to create a nurturing environment where storytelling can flourish. This focus on rapport is likely to resonate well with both authors eager to find their place in the market and readers craving diverse narratives.
A New Era for Hager and Literature
As Hager embarks on this new chapter, it arrives at a transition point in her professional life, coinciding with Hoda Kotb’s exit from the Today show. The timing encapsulates a period of change and new beginnings, resonating with the broader themes of growth and exploration found in literature itself. As the 43-year-old transitions from television to publishing, she embodies a model for how personal passions can evolve into broader ventures that enrich both oneself and the community.
In wrapping up her announcement, Hager declared, “I’m obsessed,” signifying her deep commitment to the imprint. It is this passion that will undoubtedly drive Thousand Voices Books to become a beacon for new literary talent while inviting readers to engage with a tapestry of stories that reflect a myriad of human experiences. This initiative not only amplifies her legacy but also enriches the global literary scene, promising readers exciting narratives that underscore the importance of diverse voices.