10 March

Luke Russert to Release Debut Memoir, Look for Me There, with Harper Horizon on May 2, 2023 

The Emmy Award–winning journalist will offer an exploration of finding oneself and one’s place in the world in the face of crushing expectations and grief. 

“Look for me there,” news legend Tim Russert would tell his son, Luke, when confirming a pickup spot at an airport, sporting event, or rock concert. After Tim died unexpectedly, Luke kept looking for his father, following in Tim’s footsteps and carving out a highly successful career at NBC News. After eight years covering politics on television, Luke realized he had no good answer as to why he was chasing his father’s legacy. As the son of two accomplished parents—his mother is journalist Maureen Orth of Vanity Fair—Luke felt the pressure of high expectations but suddenly decided to leave the familiar path behind. 

Instead, Luke set out on his own to find answers. “I reached a crossroads in my early thirties where I felt empty and unfulfilled. I wanted to know why, so I set out into the world, hoping to feel something,” Russert said.  

What began as several open-ended months of travel to decompress and reassess morphed into a three-plus-year odyssey across six continents to discover the world and, ultimately, to find himself. “The reward of travel was that it made me much more aware of my surroundings—the beauty of nature, the weight of history, and the common good of the larger human family,” said Russert. “It also forced out some hard truths about losing my dad, my relationship with my mom, grief, inadequacy, and ignorance.”  

“There are times as a publisher that I’m fortunate enough to receive a page-turning memoir from an author who is equally nuanced and impactful. This is that book and Luke is that author. I can’t wait for the world to experience his story,” said Matt Baugher, publisher of Harper Horizon.  The book has also received early industry praise with TODAY co-anchor Savannah Guthrie adding, “In Look for Me There, Luke Russert traverses terrain both physical and deeply personal. On his journey to some of the world’s most stunning destinations, he visits the internal places of grief, family, faith, ambition, and purpose—with intense self-reflection, honesty, and courage.” 

Look for Me There is both the vivid narrative of that journey and the emotional story of a young man taking charge of his life, reexamining his relationship with his parents, and finally grieving his larger-than-life father, who died too young. “This book shows the power of vulnerability. It’s something I felt and saw everywhere I went. Whether through faith or just a meaningful moment, when I became more vulnerable things became clearer,” Russert said. 

For anyone uncertain about the direction of their life or unsure of how to move forward after a loss, Look for Me There is a poignant reflection that offers encouragement to examine our choices, take risks, and discover our truest selves. 

Look For Me There will be available in hardcover, ebook, and audiobook with Russert narrating. You can pre-order today at https://www.harpercollinsfocus.com/lookformethere 

About Luke Russert:  

Luke Orth Russert is an Emmy Award–winning journalist who was an NBC News correspondent from 2008 to 2016, primarily covering American politics. Since leaving broadcast journalism, he is the author of Look for Me There, a travel memoir about his three-and-a-half-year journey around the world that took him to more than sixty-five countries. Based in Washington, DC, he is the son of journalists Maureen Orth (Vanity Fair) and the late Tim Russert (NBC’s Meet the Press). 

About Harper Horizon: 

Harper Horizon is a Nashville-based imprint of HarperCollins Focus focused on the stories, values, and diverse voices of Americana and beyond, publishing authors such as Willie Nelson, Syd & Shea McGee, Zachary Levi, Meghan Trainor, Jenny Doan, Trae Crowder, Ellie Goulding and more. For more information, please visit www.harpercollinsfocus.com/Harper-Horizon 

Media Contact:

Kevin Smith 

Publicity Director, Harper Horizon 

Tel: 615-902-1738 

Web:[email protected] 

30 January

Meghan Trainor to Release Her First Book, Dear Future Mama, with Harper Horizon on April 25, 2023 

The Grammy Award–winning singer will offer the TMI real talk women want about pregnancy, birth, body image, and the newborn days. 

Today, Meghan Trainor surprised fans with big news during a pop-in appearance on the Today Show. While dropping by to exclusively announce the news of her first book, Dear Future Mama: A TMI Guide to Pregnancy, Birth, and New Motherhood from Your Bestie, she also announced that she is expecting her second child. 

The chart-topping singer-songwriter behind “All About That Bass,” “Dear Future Husband,” and recent global smash “Made You Look” has wanted to be a mom since before she even knew how babies were made. From the moment she discovered she was pregnant with her first child—her son, Riley—she was fascinated by the entire experience. “I spent my entire pregnancy trying to get all the information I could possibly get. I was captivated by what I was experiencing, and as the first of my friends to be pregnant, nobody around me but my mom, my aunts, and strangers on the internet knew what I was going through,” says Trainor.   

Dear Future Mama, which will be released on April 25, 2023, with Harper Horizon, is a heartfelt and humorous guide for expectant mamas and their partners inspired by Meghan’s own journey into motherhood. The book also offers expert insights from Meghan’s own personal trainer, registered dietitian, husband, and ob-gyn.  

Yes, pregnancy and motherhood are miracles—but even a miracle can freak you out sometimes. Dear Future Mama offers future mamas a place to relax, laugh out loud, and get the pep talk they need to know that they are absolutely not alone. No shame, no judgment—just straight talk (and laughs) from a bestie who’s been there. Trainor shares her TMI guide to the good, bad, and WTF of conception, pregnancy, and childbirth. The book includes advice about everything from ovulation apps to breastfeeding as well as Meghan’s personal stories about body image, mental health, and navigating her career path as a mother.    

“After feeling so overwhelmed and alone in my first pregnancy, I was inspired to write this book to make sure no other future mama ever felt like that.” says Trainor. “I want to give future mamas permission to find the right path for them without the judgment of others. I want this book to feel like a hug from a bestie.” says Trainor. 

Dear Future Mama will be available in hardcover, ebook, and audiobook with Trainor narrating. You can pre-order today at harpercollinsfocus.com/dearfuturemama 

About Meghan Trainor: 

Meghan Trainor first made history in 2014 with her diamond-certified smash single “All About That Bass.” Since then, the award-winning singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist has garnered a GRAMMY® for Best New Artist, achieved eight multi-platinum singles and two platinum albums, sold out three world tours, penned multi-platinum hits for peers across pop and country, and received countless industry awards and nominations. Expanding her influence on pop culture, she starred on FOX’s hit series THE FOUR: Battle for Stardom for two seasons and on the superstar coaching panel of The Voice UK alongside Sir Tom Jones, will.i.am, and Olly Murs. She kicked off 2020 with the release of her third full-length album, Treat Myself (Epic Records), which includes the platinum smash “No Excuses” as well as blockbuster anthems and collaborations such as “Nice To Meet Ya” [feat. Nicki Minaj], “Genetics” [feat. Pussycat Dolls], and “Wave” [feat. Mike Sabath]. At the end of 2020 she released her first-ever Christmas album, A Very Trainor Christmas, featuring the #1 holiday radio single “White Christmas.” In 2021, we got to watch her as the host of Top Chef Family Style on Peacock and as a judge on Clash of the Cover Bands on E!. In September of 2021 she also launched her podcast Workin’ On It which she hosts alongside her brother, Ryan Trainor. In 2022 Meghan released her fourth full-length album, Takin’ It Back, which takes you through her journey into marriage, motherhood, and achieving a new level of confidence. The album features colossal hit “Made You Look,” which has garnered over 300 million streams and become an internet sensation, being used in over 4 million videos on social media to date.  She kicks off 2023 by joining the judging panel of the iconic star-maker series, Australian Idol, in its highly anticipated return to air. This year, Meghan will also be making her literary debut with Dear Future Mama, a humorous, unflinching guide to pregnancy and motherhood…..and more music to come soon! 

About Harper Horizon: 

Harper Horizon is a Nashville-based imprint of HarperCollins Focus focused on the stories, values, and diverse voices of Americana and beyond, publishing authors such as Willie Nelson, Syd & Shea McGee, Zachary Levi, Meghan Trainor, Jenny Doan, Trae Crowder, and more. For more information, please visit www.harpercollinsfocus.com/Harper-Horizon 

Kevin Smith 

Publicity Director, Harper Horizon 

Tel: 615-902-1738 

Web:[email protected] 

Luke Burland  

COO, BB Gun Press 

Tel: 310-721-4443 

Web: [email protected] 

10 November

Ellie Goulding to release Fitter. Calmer. Stronger. with Harper Horizon on January 3, 2023

Just in time to help you kickstart healthier habits in the new year, global superstar Ellie Goulding is releasing her first U.S. book, Fitter. Calmer. Stronger.: A Mindful Approach to Exercise and Nutrition with Harper Horizon. In this attractive, full-color book, Goulding shares her tips for making simple changes in your daily routines that not only help combat anxiety but also add up to foundational changes in the way you approach health and well-being.

Ellie Goulding is a multi-platinum selling, award-winning and critically acclaimed singer/songwriter. Now, after years of inspiring fans with her love of fitness and wellness, Goulding shares her favorite recipes, workouts, and training principles. Drawing on her own personal experiences, as well as the advice of friends and experts like Ant Middleton, Fearne Cotton, and Katie Taylor, this book will help you develop a positive mindset and establish clear, achievable goals. Going far beyond diet and exercise, the book equips readers with tools and techniques that they can use every day to build a fitter, calmer, stronger version of themselves. This means prioritizing self-care and flexibility and approaching wellness from a perspective that is sustainable—one that doesn’t leave you feeling like you’ve failed and, most importantly, allows room for fun and creativity.

Fitter. Calmer. Stronger. will be available in hardcover, ebook, and audiobook. You can pre-order today here

About Ellie Goulding:

To date Ellie has garnered two BRIT Awards, two GRAMMY Award nominations and a Golden Globe nomination. She has sold over 18 million albums and 140 million singles and amassed 23 billion streams worldwide. With over 50 million followers combined on her social platforms, she also earned YouTube’s Diamond Award with 10 million subscribers on her YouTube channel and over 5 billion views globally. Her forthcoming anticipated new album, Higher Than Heaven, will be released February 3, 2023 on Interscope Records.

Alongside her incredible music career, Ellie is a long-standing activist and philanthropist who uses her platform to engage young people with global issues. In 2017, Goulding was awarded the UN’s New Voices Award, and in recognition of her wider activism became a goodwill ambassador for UN Environment. Earlier this year, Goulding also became a TIME100 Impact Award winner and shortly after, announced her ambassadorship with the WWF.

Ellie’s passion for music and activism is matched by her dedication to health and well-being. She enjoys boxing, running, yoga, and many other activities. Her first book details her philosophy for a happier, stronger you and approaches fitness holistically, prioritizing happiness and flexibility above all else.

About Harper Horizon: 

Harper Horizon is a Nashville-based imprint of HarperCollins Focus focused on the stories, values, and diverse voices of Americana and beyond, publishing authors such as Willie Nelson, Syd & Shea McGee, Zachary Levi, Meghan Trainor, Jenny Doan, Trae Crowder, and more.  For more information please visit www.harpercollinsfocus.com/Harper-Horizon.

HarperCollins Focus:

HarperCollins Focus, LLC owns and operates a collection of publishing imprints, that enlighten and empower readers to transform their hearts and minds, connecting through story, advice, mentorship and community. The company is based in Nashville, TN. For more information go to www.harpercollinsfocus.com.

Contact: 

Kevin Smith

Publicity Director, Harper Horizon

tel:  615.902.1738

web: [email protected]

12 October

Kristin Chenoweth to release gift book I’m No Philosopher, But I Got Thoughts with Harper Celebrate on January 17

(Nashville, Tenn.) October 12 — Emmy® and Tony® Award-winning actress, singer, and New York Times bestselling author Kristin Chenoweth’s I’m No Philosopher, But I Got Thoughts: Mini-Meditations for Saints, Sinners, and the Rest of Us will be published by Harper Celebrate, a gift book imprint of HarperCollins Focus, on January 17, 2023.

Photo of Kristin Chenoweth by John Russo

I’m No Philosopher, But I Got Thoughts is a high-design, colorful gift book packed with Kristin’s hilarious and insightful philosophical-ish musings on connection, creativity, loss, love, and closure, which appear alongside intimate stories from Kristin’s personal and professional life. 

“I think we can all agree that what this tired world needs right now is one big celebration,” said Kristin.  “You bring the champagne, and I’ll bring this book, which is my gift to you: a celebration of whatever makes this day joyful, a mini-vacation from whatever makes it a challenge.”

“When I first met Kristin, it was her warmth, humor, and friendliness that immediately made me feel like we’d been friends for years,” said Michael Aulisio, vice president and publisher, Harper Celebrate.  “That’s what is most exciting about I’m No Philosopher, But I Got Thoughts.  Through this creative and immersive book format, the reader comes alongside Kristin like a good friend to glean her thoughts on love, purpose, career, and more – all with the goal of adding a little more joy to life.”

Singer, songwriter, actress, and friend Ariana Grande provides an introduction. I’m No Philosopher, But I Got Thoughts will be available for purchase in hardcover, ebook, and audiobook with Kristin narrating on January 17, 2023.  

Kristin will celebrate the upcoming publication of I’m No Philosopher, But I Got Thoughts at a TalkShopLive pre-sale event LIVE at 6:00pm EST on Sunday, October 23, with guest host actress Kathy Najimy. Attendees who purchase a copy of the book during the TalkShopLive event will receive a signed book and commemorative holiday card.  For more information, visit talkshop.live/channels/kristinchenoweth.

I’m No Philosopher, But I Got Thoughts was acquired for Harper Celebrate by Danielle Peterson from Richard Abate at 3 Arts Entertainment.    

About Kristin Chenoweth: 

Emmy® and Tony® Award-winning actress, singer, and New York Times bestselling author Kristin Chenoweth’s career spans film, television, voiceover, and stage. She received an Emmy® Award for her role in Pushing Daisies, won a Tony® Award for You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, and received a Tony® Award nomination for her original role of Glinda the Good Witch in Wicked. Kristin has released multiple albums, including The Art of Elegance and For the Girls, and has performed to sold-out audiences across the world. Notable TV and film credits include Schmigadoon!, West Wing, Descendants, and her Emmy®-award nominated role on Glee; and Holidate, Deck the Halls, RV, and Four Christmases. She is the author of the bestselling books What Will I Do with My Love Today and A Little Bit Wicked. In partnership with the Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center (BAPAC) Foundation, she launched her annual Broadway Bootcamp for young Broadway hopefuls. Kristin is a graduate of Oklahoma City University with a Master’s degree in Opera Performance. She is an inductee into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame, and in 2015 she received a coveted star on The Hollywood Walk of Fame. 

About Harper Celebrate:

Harper Celebrate publishes projects such as daily readers; lifestyle books on topics like hospitality, home decorating, organization, and crafting; journals; photography-driven books and anthologies; poetry; mindfulness; and occasion-focused books such as holiday celebrations, graduation, and gifts for special persons. For more information, visit www.harpercollinsfocus.com/harper-celebrate.

About HarperCollins Focus:

HarperCollins Focus, LLC owns and operates a collection of publishing imprints, that enlighten and empower readers to transform their hearts and minds, connecting through story, advice, mentorship and community. The company’s mission is to inspire the world with content that equips people to lead lives of significance, integrity and purpose. The company is based in Nashville, TN. For more information go to www.harpercollinsfocus.com.

Media Contact:  

MacKenzie Collier

Publicity Director, Harper Celebrate

tel:   615.902.1645

web:  [email protected]

22 September

Harper Celebrate acquires new lifestyle medicine book from bestselling author Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson

Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson

(Nashville, Tenn.) — Harper Celebrate, a gift book imprint of HarperCollins Focus, today announced the acquisition of Glow: 90 Days to Create Your Vibrant Life from Within, an integrative medicine daily reader with bestselling author Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson, a pioneer of functional and integrative medicine.

Scheduled to release in summer of 2023, this beautifully designed book features Dr. Stephenson’s holistic 90-day VIBRANT strategy – a roadmap for living intentionally and joyfully and glowing from the inside out. Dr. Stephenson’s accessible VIBRANT plan incorporates mindfulness practices into daily rhythms, focusing on Voice, Intuition, Balance, Rejuvenation, Abundance, Nurturing, and Thankfulness.

“Dr. Stephenson’s whole-person approach to wellness is remarkable in both its scope and approachability,” said Michael Aulisio, vice president and publisher, Harper Celebrate. “Glow will incorporate Dr. Stephenson’s breadth of knowledge and positive spirit into an actionable formula readers can use to start and end their days—keeping them focused on being mentally and emotionally healthy, balanced, and achieving their goals.”

“It’s an honor to join the Harper Celebrate team alongside such an incredible stable of impressive and groundbreaking authors,” said Dr. Stephenson. “Part of the reason I left private practice was because I wanted to help more people than I could feasibly treat in a single day, week, or even month. First with Vibrant, and now with Glow, I’m thrilled to help people implement intentional living and across the globe. No matter where you are in your health journey, I hope that my new book will help you take that first step toward discovering a more joyful, fulfilled, and luminous you.”

Glow: 90 Days to Create Your Vibrant Life from Within was acquired for Harper Celebrate by Kathleen Breaux from Heidi Krupp at Krupp.

About Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson:

Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson is a recognized leader in functional medicine focused on integrative, regenerative, anti-aging, and natural medicine modalities. In addition to her functional medicine and anti-aging board certifications, she is a Certified Nutrition Specialist and Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine. Dr. Stephenson is dedicated to making integrative medicine concepts and optimal wellness accessible to all. She spent close to 15 years in private practice before she was named Chair of Functional Medicine at Cancer Treatment Centers of America. She is also a board member for the American Nutritional Association, an ambassador for the American Heart Association, and the Vice Chair of Gateway for Cancer Research, a non-profit organization dedicated to funding breakthrough cancer research and early stage clinical trials. She is the author of the national bestseller, Vibrant: A Groundbreaking Program to Get Energized, Own Your Health, and Glow. She resides in the midwest with her husband and children. For more information visit VibrantDoc.com and follow Dr. Stephenson at instagram.com/drsjstephenson.

About Harper Celebrate:

Harper Celebrate publishes projects such as daily readers; lifestyle books on topics like hospitality, home decorating, organization, and crafting; journals; photography-driven books and anthologies; poetry; mindfulness; and occasion-focused books such as holiday celebrations, graduation, and gifts for special persons. For more information, visit Harpercollinsfocus.com/harper-celebrate.

About HarperCollins Focus:

HarperCollins Focus, LLC owns and operates a collection of publishing imprints, that enlighten and empower readers to transform their hearts and minds, connecting through story, advice, mentorship and community. The company’s mission is to inspire the world with content that equips people to lead lives of significance, integrity and purpose. The company is based in Nashville, TN. For more information go to Harpercollinsfocus.com.

Media Contact:

MacKenzie Collier

Publicity Director, Harper Celebrate

tel: 615.902.1645

web: [email protected]

16 August

Joanna Gaines to release highly anticipated memoir, The Stories We Tell, with Harper Select on November 8 

THIS MARKS THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR’S FIRST SOLO MEMOIR.  

The Stories We Tell

Today, Joanna Gaines announced that her first solo memoir, The Stories We Tell, will be released on November 8, 2022, with Harper Select. The Stories We Tell invites readers on an authentic and deeply vulnerable journey into Gaines’ story—and helps shine a light on the beauty of our own—guiding us to release the weights that hold us back so we may live and share our story in truth. 

The book is described as an invitation to take stock of the chapters we’ve lived—the good and the bad, the beautiful and the ugly—to glean what’s gold and carry only that forward. “Very few people innately capture beauty like Joanna Gaines,” said Matt Baugher, publisher of Harper Select. “She has now taken that ability and turned it inward to shine a light on the deepest parts of her own story while showing us how to do the same.” 

In a social media post, Gaines shared directly with fans why she wanted to write the book “Earlier this year I started jotting down memories and stories from my past, journaling about things I was still, years later, trying to work through. Half of my life is behind me, and I’ve been longing for clarity about what I should carry forward and how I could hold this next chapter well. At some point, I realized I was writing a story—my story. The bits and pieces that shape who I am. It was messy and winding and beautiful, and graciously revealed about a million wonders. Some of it broke my heart—and some of it pieced it back together. I took this picture the day I finished it—and today we sent it off to the printer!! It’s out of my hands and time to share it with the world. I’m feeling a little bit of everything: nervous, excited, vulnerable, but mostly hopeful. That any part of my story might shine a light on the fullness of yours.” 

“We all have a story to tell. This happens to be mine—every chapter a window into who I am, the journey I’m on, and the season I’m in right now,” says Gaines. “Because this is my story, maybe you won’t always relate, or maybe it will feel like you’re looking in a mirror. Whatever we have in common and whatever differences lie between us, I only hope my story can help shine a light on the beauty of yours. That my own soul work will stir something of your own. And that by the time you get to the end of my story, you’re also holding the beautiful beginnings of your own. A story only you can tell. And I hope that you will.” 

Gaines’ previous literary works The Magnolia Story, Magnolia Table, Homebody, and two children’s books, We Are the Gardeners and The World Needs Who You Were Made to Be, have sold more than 10 million copies to date.   

The Stories We Tell will be available in hardcover, ebook, and audiobook with Gaines narrating. You can pre-order today at http://magnolia.com/storieswetell. 

ABOUT JOANNA GAINES: 

Joanna Gaines is the co-founder of Magnolia, a New York Times bestselling author, editor-in-chief of Magnolia Journal, and creator and co-owner of Magnolia Network. 

Born in Kansas and raised in the Lone Star State, Jo graduated from Baylor University with a degree in communications. It was an internship in New York City that prompted her desire to discover how she could create beauty for people. In a big city unknown to her, Jo always felt most at home whenever she stepped inside the cozy and thoughtfully curated boutique shops, which inspired her to open a shop of her own in Waco, Texas. 

Alongside her passion for design and food, nothing inspires Jo more than time spent at home with Chip and their five kids—whether they’re messing with recipes in the kitchen or planting something new in the garden. 

ABOUT HARPER SELECT: 

Harper Select is a boutique-style imprint, based in Nashville, TN, publishing an exclusive number of hand-selected memoirs and narrative nonfiction focused on stories of hope and determination.  

Media Contact:

Kevin Smith

Harper Select, Publicity Director 

[email protected] 

20 July

Willie Nelson Celebrates the Larger-Than-Life Legend of Paul English in New Book, Me and Paul: Untold Tales of a Fabled Friendship, Coming from Harper Horizon on September 20, 2022

As Told by America’s Foremost Outlaw Country Troubadour, Me and Paul Chronicles the Adventures of Willie and His Longtime Drummer, “Closest Friend” and Guardian Angel Around the World and Across the Decades

Me and Paul: Untold Tales of a Fabled Friendship

Willie Nelson’s revelatory new book, Me and Paul: Untold Tales of a Fabled Friendship, invites the reader to meet Paul English, Willie’s longtime drummer, “closest friend” and combination bodyguard / guardian angel who shared and often shepherded the behind-the-scenes real-world comedy, drama, tragedy and transcendence that come with the territory of a career like Willie’s.

Willie first immortalized Paul English with the hilariously-detailed road song “Me & Paul.” Penned for the drummer in the early 1970s, the song became the title track for Willie’s 1985 studio album and a fan favorite in his live sets. “I’ve got this song that begs to be a book and a book that begs to read like a song–a long, romping ballad of sweetness and scandal bridging seven decades of friendship,” Willie has said, and now, Me and Paul: Untold Tales of a Fabled Friendship fulfills the promise of that song.

For 70 years, Paul English was a towering figure in Willie’s life and career. From serving as the steady musical heartbeat in the band to acting as the gun-toting bodyguard and tour accountant who made sure the band got paid for every show, Paul always had Willie’s back. From their earliest meeting, Willie and Paul had an intuitive understanding of each other and the kind of music Willie Nelson was meant to create.

Written in Willie’s direct and inimitable narrative style, Me and Paul: Untold Tales of a Fabled Friendship is the career-spanning journey of one of the great buddy teams in American literature and show business, with Willie and Paul not unlike Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn (or maybe Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis). The pair shared an unbroken bond that lasted until Paul’s death at 87, on February 11, 2020. According to Willie, “There’s something about my friendship with Paul that reminds me of Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn. Tom was more civilized and Huck was wilder. Although I was plenty wild at age twenty-two, I’d have to say Paul was wilder. Like Tom and Huck, though, we became a team. Nothing could or would ever separate us. If someone tries to tell my story without putting Paul by my side, don’t bother reading it.”

“In 2020, my closest friend left me. Into the infinite abyss,” Willie writes in his introduction. “The mission of this book is to bring him back…. Why were Paul and I so devoted to each other? Good question. That’s another reason I wrote this book—to show the mystical connection between me and Paul…. It was like I knew him before we ever met. And now that he’s gone, he’s still here. He still knows me. He still lives in my heart and in the hearts of everyone whose lives he touched. Another thing about Paul: I owe him big time. The man saved my life more times than I can remember…. It’s been said that a good friend knows all your best stories, but a best friend has lived them with you. Well, that was us…. In the Willie Nelson Family, he stood in the center. I was the front man of the band, but he was the front man of my life. He was the papa bear, the big brother, the wise uncle, the money man, the bag man, the dealmaker, the sharpest shooter, and the kindest heart.”

Willie Nelson wrote Me and Paul: Untold Tales of a Fabled Friendship with Grammy-winning music journalist/biographer/author David Ritz, who collaborated with Willie on It’s a Long Story: My Life and Me (2015) and Willie and Bobbie Nelson on Sister Bobbie: True Tales of the Family Band (2020). In his preface, “A Note from a Ghost,” Ritz explains how the new book differs from Willie’s previous memoirs: “Me and Paul is not straight autobiography. This is something different, a collection of tales–some short, some tall–told by Willie Nelson and his best friend, Paul English….”

Me and Paul: Untold Tales of a Fabled Friendship tracks the rise of Willie Nelson’s career from the obscurity of Fort Worth in the 1950s through the seedy clublands of Dallas in 1963 to the challenges of Nashville, the allure of New York and Hollywood (Paul appears in Willie’s 1986 movie, “Red Headed Stranger”), launching the Outlaw Country revolution, founding Farm Aid (Paul served as Farm Aid’s treasurer for many years) and much more.

Paul and Willie first played together in Fort Worth in 1955; Paul became Willie’s regular drummer in 1966 and an essential member of the Family. Four of the performances on 2021’s The Willie Nelson Family–“Heaven and Hell,” “Kneel at the Feet of Jesus,” “Laying My Burdens Down” and “Family Bible”–are among the last recordings Willie made with his longtime drummer and best pal.

About Harper Horizon:

Harper Horizon is a Nashville-based imprint within HarperCollins Focus, publishing nonfiction literature across a number of categories, including self-help, memoir, health and wellness, cooking, and other inspirational topics that reflect the values and cultural diversity of America’s Heartland. Harper Horizon exists to empower the minds of readers to all things possible, whether that is learning a new skill, building community, improving the environment, or having the courage to embody their beliefs. Learn more at www.harper-horizon.com. Previous Willie Nelson book titles to be released through Harper Horizon include Willie Nelson’s Letters to America and Me and Sister Bobbie.

About Willie Nelson:

With a seven-decade career, Willie Nelson has earned every conceivable award as a musician and amassed reputable credentials as an author, actor, and activist. He continues to thrive as a relevant and progressive musical and cultural force. In recent years, he has delivered more than a dozen new albums, released a Top 10 New York Times’ bestsellers book, again headlined Farm Aid, an event he co-founded in 1985, been honored by the Library of Congress with their Gershwin Prize for Popular Song, received his 5th degree black belt in Gong Kwon Yu Sul, headlined the annual Luck Reunion food and music festival during SXSW, launched his cannabis companies Willie’s Reserve and Willie’s Remedy, and graced the covers of Rolling Stone and AARP The Magazine. In July 2020, Willie released his album First Rose of Spring – an atmospheric soulful showcase of beautifully-written songs and poignant performances. September 2020 brought a memoir with his sister and pianist Bobbie Nelson titled, Me and Sister Bobbie: True Tales of The Family Band. For 2021, he released a new studio album in February —That’s Life, Willie’s second album of standards and classics made famous by Frank Sinatra (his first, 2018’s My Way, earned Willie the Grammy for Best Traditional Pop Solo Album). In June 2021, a collection of his thoughts on America, family, faith and music hits shelves as a new book titled Willie Nelson’s Letters to America. In November 2021, Nelson released the new studio album, The Willie Nelson Family, a collection of country gospel-flavored songs performed by Willie’s Family Band. In April 2022, he released another new studio album, A Beautiful Time, which includes a variety of newly-written future pop-country classics including five new Willie Nelson/Buddy Cannon compositions. These creative endeavors as well as new songs and performances that add to his classic catalog, find Willie Nelson rolling at an artistic peak, writing and singing and playing with the seasoned wit and wisdom that comes from the road.

Contact: Kevin Smith, Publicity Director

[email protected]

615.902.1738

19 April

Reba McEntire to publish lifestyle book with Harper Celebrate

Reba McEntire

(Nashville, Tenn.) April 19, 2022—Harper Celebrate, a gift book imprint of HarperCollins Focus, today announced a forthcoming lifestyle book with actress and country music legend Reba McEntire. Set to release in fall 2023, this beautiful, full-color book will feature personal stories, food and cocktail recipes, and lifestyle tips that range from hosting to packing a suitcase. Each chapter will be centered on a theme from her iconic songs including grit, family legacy, being curious, and prioritizing the things that matter most.

“Reba is universally beloved for her talent, humor, and unapologetic authenticity,” said Michael Aulisio, vice president and publisher, Harper Celebrate. “This book will offer readers a seat at Reba’s table as she shares her hard-earned wisdom on what it means to live a good life. And let me assure you, there will be a lot of fun had along the way.”

Reba remarked, “I’m so excited to partner with the Harper Celebrate team to create my first lifestyle book where I will share stories, behind the scenes photos, some of my favorite recipes and life lessons I’ve learned over the years. I know my fans are going to love it!”

About Reba McEntire:

Multi-media entertainment mogul Reba McEntire has become a household name through a successful career that spans across music, television, film, theater and retail. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Hollywood Bowl member has won 16 ACM Awards, 15 American Music Awards, 9 People’s Choice Awards, 6 CMA Awards, 3 GRAMMY® Awards, a GMA Dove Award and was a 2018 Kennedy Center Honors recipient, in addition to multiple philanthropic and leadership honors. Reba has celebrated unprecedented success including 35 career No.1 singles and selling over 56 million albums worldwide. Reba recently earned her 60th Top 10 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart, extending her record for the most Top 10 hits among female artists. Reba’s Top 10 success spans across five straight decades and lands her alongside only George Jones, Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton in the achievement.  Reba McEntire’s special CD & DVD pairing, MY CHAINS ARE GONE debuted as her 28th Top 10 on Billboard’s Country Album Chart.  Reba recently wrapped REBA: LIVE IN CONCERT, hitting every corner of the country across 20 dates, the superstar treated sold-out audiences to a stacked set of her most celebrated hits.  The Oklahoma native and Golden Globe® nominated actress has 11 movie credits to her name, a lead role on Broadway in Irving Berlin’s Annie Get Your Gun and starred in the six-season television sitcom Reba. Her brand partnerships include Dillard’s, REBA by Justin™ and she was named the first female and musician to portray KFC’s iconic founder Colonel Harland Sanders in their celebrity colonel campaign.  In 2020, Reba launched her very first Spotify original podcast, Living & Learning with Reba McEntire, featuring guests including Dolly Parton, Lady A, Trisha Yearwood, Leslie Jordan, Kristin Chenoweth, Jane Fonda and more.  Reba announced the development of“Reba’s Place” — a restaurant, bar, live music venue and retail store — set to open in Atoka, Oklahoma later this year.  For more information, visitwww.Reba.com or follow @Reba on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.  

About Harper Celebrate:

Launched in May 2021, Harper Celebrate is the newest imprint under HarperCollins Focus. Harper Celebrate publishes projects such as daily readers; lifestyle books on topics like hospitality, home decorating, organization, and crafting; journals; photography-driven books and anthologies; poetry; mindfulness; and occasion-focused books such as holiday celebrations, graduation, and gifts for special persons. For more information, visit www.harpercollinsfocus.com/harper-celebrate.

About HarperCollins Focus:

HarperCollins Focus, LLC owns and operates a collection of publishing imprints, that enlighten and empower readers to transform their hearts and minds, connecting through story, advice, mentorship and community. The company’s mission is to inspire the world with content that equips people to lead lives of significance, integrity and purpose. The company also operates HarperCollins Leadership Essentials, a destination online community dedicated to accelerating personal and professional development. The company is based in Nashville, TN. For more information go to www.harpercollinsfocus.com.

30 March

HarperCollins Focus Launches new imprint Harper Select

 (Nashville, Tenn.) March 30, 2022—HarperCollins Focus today announced the launch of a new, boutique-style publishing imprint, Harper Select, that will be led by industry veteran Matt Baugher.  Harper Select will focus exclusively on memoir and narrative nonfiction titles with Baugher acquiring, managing, and editing each book project. 

“My vision is to hand-select an exclusive number of projects each year that are uniquely positioned to capture the interest of the reader through amazing experiences and the people who’ve lived them,” said senior v-p and publisher, Matt Baugher. “Harper Select will be a natural extension of the HarperCollins Focus overall position in the marketplace—one that equips readers to lead a life of significance, integrity, and purpose.”

Baugher continued, “Our stories matter, and we have the opportunity to learn so much from each other, should we choose to do so. Harper Select’s sole purpose will be to find unique and life-changing stories of hope and determination that make us think, feel inspired, and bring us joy.” 

Matt Baugher, SVP, Publisher Harper Select

With more than twenty years in the publishing industry, Baugher has worked with many well-known cultural influencers, including co-founders of Magnolia, Chip and Joanna Gaines. In 2016, Baugher published their debut book The Magnolia Story (Thomas Nelson), and together, they have worked across multiple imprints within HarperCollins Publishers to develop a broad collection of works. Last month, the Magnolia Publications pilot initiative was announced—to place projects vetted by the Magnolia team with the HarperCollins publishing group most aligned to take the book to market—that Baugher will manage, in addition to his role as publisher of Harper Select.

In addition to Chip and Joanna Gaines, Baugher’s acquisition portfolio has included bestselling authors Gary Sinise, Kathie Lee Gifford, Zachary Levi, Rory Feek, and Andy Andrews, and published international bestsellers Heaven is for Real, Finding Gobi, Same Kind of Different As Me, and many more. 

Harper Select will be based out of Nashville, Tenn. For more information please visit www.HarperCollinsFocus.com/HarperSelect.

About HarperCollins Focus:

HarperCollins Focus owns and operates a collection of publishing imprints, that enlighten and empower readers to transform their hearts and minds, connecting through story, advice, mentorship and community. The company’s mission is to inspire the world with content that equips people to lead lives of significance, integrity and purpose. Current publishing imprints include Blink, Harper Celebrate, HarperCollins Leadership, Harper Horizon, Harper Muse and Harper Select. The company also operates HarperCollins Leadership Essentials, an online community dedicated to accelerating personal and professional development. The company is based in Nashville, TN. For more information go to www.harpercollinsfocus.com.

08 July

HarperCollins Christian Publishing Aligns Sales and Marketing Operations Under Unified Leadership

Company names Doug Lockhart, SVP Sales and Centralized Marketing

(Nashville, Tenn.) July 8, 2021—HarperCollins Christian Publishing today announced its plan to join sales and centralized marketing operations under a unified leadership structure that better positions its retail partners to capitalize on the company’s best-in-class marketing resources. Doug Lockhart will lead this strategy for the company as senior v-p Sales and Centralized Marketing.

“The dramatic increase in online purchases over the last year has spurred brick-and-mortar and online retailers to invest heavily in digital marketing for their own tech platforms,” said president and CEO of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Mark Schoenwald. “This has strengthened people’s dependency on online shopping resources which creates an opportunity for our company to increase cross-functional collaboration within the digital marketing and retail merchandising space.”

In his expanded role, Lockhart will integrate marketing expertise more robustly into the company’s retail partner strategy for both the Christian division and HarperCollins Focus.

“Selling books has always been dependent on great marketing,” said Lockhart. “However, discovering new books and authors now almost always includes an overabundance of online resources. We are going to focus on sharing information between teams to improve the customer journey experience. We have developed an industry leading marketing operations team with expertise in analytics, metadata, SEO, social media, research, website development and email marketing. These teams will work together to maximize our author’s exposure at retail.”

Lockhart is an industry veteran with more than 11 years with the company. Most recently, serving as senior v-p of Marketing and Business Partnerships, Lockhart identified opportunities to expand the company’s reach in new and emerging markets, including the stewardship of the company’s co-publication and co-distribution partnership with Urban Ministries, Inc. Before joining Zondervan in 2002, he spent ten years building and leading a sales organization for a Johnson & Johnson company. He has led at an executive level for 18 years including six years as the president and CEO of Biblica. Lockhart rejoined HCCP in 2014 and has served in several leadership roles where consumer purchasing behavior and market trends were aligned with business strategy.

Schoenwald continued, “Doug is a well-rounded executive leader, with great relationships across the industry. He is one of the original architects for our centralized marketing operations and has since positioned talented leaders to grow our expertise in this rapidly changing discipline. As we seek to aggressively acquire new voices and publish life-changing content, this new alignment will be critical in our success.”

Contact:   Casey Harrell

                 VP, Corporate Communications

                 tel:   615.902.1109

                 web: [email protected]