Poet and activist Gorman to publish 'joyful' children’s book with Viking

Viking will publish Something, Someday, an illustrated children’s book by presidential inaugural poet Amanda Gorman, with illustrations by Christian Robinson. 

World rights were acquired by Tamar Brazis, vice-president and publisher at Viking Children’s Books & Philomel from Steven Malk at Writers House, with UK and Commonwealth rights acquired from Penguin Young Readers by Andrea MacDonald, editorial director at Puffin. The book will publish in hardback on 26th September. 

The synopsis reads: “Something, Someday pairs Gorman’s inspiring text with Robinson’s iconic art to deliver a timeless message of hope. Sometimes the world feels broken. And problems seem too big to fix. But somehow, we all have the power to make a difference. With a little faith, and maybe the help of a friend, together we can find beauty and create change.”

MacDonald described the book as “powerful, beautiful and joyful”. “At the book’s heart is the message that the smallest action can inspire lasting change,” she said. 

Gorman added: “I wrote Something, Someday to show that though it might be difficult, when we work together even the smallest acts of kindness can lead to the largest positive change. I’ve long admired Christian’s art and having the opportunity to collaborate with him has been a dream come true. I hope that readers find joy and inspiration in Something, Someday.”

Robinson said: “Amanda Gorman’s words offer us a much-needed balm, with healing properties of honesty, hope and community care. It’s easy to feel small and overwhelmed with all the big problems in the world. Something, Someday is a reminder that even the smallest things, like a handful of seeds, can bring about big change. This book was an honour to illustrate and it’s my hope that it encourages young readers to be the change they want to see in the world.”