HQ snaps up positivity book from inspiring eight-year-old Betsy Griffin

HQ has snapped up a book about positivity by eight-year-old Betsy Griffin, who was diagnosed with a rare and inoperable brain tumour at two years old that left her blind.    

Lisa Milton, executive publisher, acquired world all-language rights to Out of the Woods: A Tale of Positivity, Kindness and Courage from Bev James at Bev James Management & Literary Agency. It will publish on 10th November.  

The publisher said: “In Out of the Woods, Betsy takes readers on an inspirational journey through a dark forest, teaching us how to see the beauty in everything, even on the darkest of nights. This unique fable captures themes that reflect Betsy’s wonderful spirit and positive outlook and can be read by anyone, whatever age. With beautiful illustrations by Emmanuel Santos and a foreword by bestselling author, broadcaster and podcaster Fearne Cotton, who will also read the audiobook, Betsy’s book will inspire us all.” 

Betsy said: “I never thought that something this amazing would happen to me. The journey to this book all started when I was six years old when I had the idea of making a YouTube channel—Betsy’s Positive Videos. During this time, I also wrote my first book about a parrot that eats a burger. My kind braille tutor, Keren, helped me produce it. I really wanted it to go on sale at my local bookshop, Chorleywood Bookshop, and Sheryl (the owner) agreed to sell it which started this wonderful journey.” 

Cotton said: “Every now and then a very special book comes along that has the power to help people in many ways. This is one of those very books. Betsy is very special.” 

Milton added: “From the moment I watched my first Betsy YouTube video, she captured my heart. With charm, warmth and wisdom, Betsy shows us all how to live life well. I hope Betsy will find a place in many readers’ hearts long into the future.”