Walker to publish sequel to Guess How Much I Love You

Walker and Candlewick are to publish Will You Be My Friend?, a sequel to the bestselling children's book Guess How Much I Love You.

The sequel will be published globally on 29th September 2020.

The book, written by Sam McBratney and illustrated by Anita Jeram, was acquired and edited by Caroline Royds and Karen Lotz, and designed and art-directed by Donna Cassanova.

Guess How Much I Love You has sold over 47 million copies sold in 57 languages worldwide, according to the publisher, with a total of 1.8 million books sold for £9.8m in the UK through Nielsen BookScan's TCM.

Walker Books Group president and publisher Karen Lotz said: “We continue to be overwhelmed by, and so grateful for, the worldwide embrace of Sam and Anita’s Nutbrown Hares. 

"We have always hoped that someday they would continue their story, but it’s difficult to imagine what could follow on from Guess How Much I Love You, with its heartfelt simplicity, loving humor, and deeply personal meanings.

" But here it is—and Sam and Anita have exceeded all expectations! This tale of first friendship is the perfect next step (hop!) for Guess fans around the world, a universal story sure to become as much of a beloved read-aloud as its predecessor.

"A picture book about friendship, created by two masters of the form, seems especially welcome as we search for new ways to stay connected to loved ones near and far.”