Jenna Bush Hager, a well-recognized face on morning television and the daughter of former President George W. Bush, has added a surprising new dimension to her already versatile career. With her recent announcement of starting a new publishing imprint, Thousand Voices Books, in collaboration with Random House Publishing Group, Hager aims to create a platform for emerging authors across multiple genres. This bold venture is a testament to her passion for literature and a desire to share diverse narratives with readers everywhere.
At 43, Hager has achieved significant milestones as a co-host of “Today,” but this move into publishing marks an exciting transition that seems to resonate deeply with her personal interests. Expressing her enthusiasm in a press release, she characterized Thousand Voices Books as a “natural extension” of her longstanding love for reading and her collaborative experiences with writers and publishers. Her words hint at a sincere commitment to merging her media presence with a tangible impact in the literary realm.
The imprint will focus on a fierce and eclectic range of genres, which include romance, suspense, and memoirs, to name a few. Each selection is aimed at enticing readers with fresh perspectives and imaginative storytelling. The anticipation surrounding the inaugural release, “Conform” by Ariel Sullivan—a dystopian romance expected this October—indicates Hager’s keen eye for captivating narratives. Furthermore, upcoming titles like “Laws of Love and Logic” by Debra Curtis and “June Baby” by Shannon Garvey are positioned to explore varied themes and emotions drawing from different aspects of the human experience.
One of Hager’s primary aspirations for the imprint is to shed light on emerging literary voices from around the globe. Illustrating her commitment to inclusivity, she aspires to “pull up the chair for a thousand different perspectives.” Her vision places an emphasis on the idea that literature serves as a gateway to understanding diverse cultures and viewpoints, allowing readers to journey into worlds unexplored.
Such an approach not only enriches the literary landscape but also affirms the importance of diversity in storytelling. By committing to this mission, Hager is not just using her platform to discover talent but is also advocating for a broader representation of authors and experiences that contribute to a more holistic understanding of the human condition.
Hager’s literary journey didn’t begin with her imprint; it has been in the making for several years through her ongoing book club, “Read With Jenna.” Launched six years ago, the book club has provided a medium for thoughtful discussions around selected works, fostering a community of readers and writers alike. Drawing on the relationships she has cultivated with authors, readers, and indie bookstore owners, Hager seems keen to leverage these connections to enhance her new initiative.
Through her experience in establishing her book club, Hager has cultivated invaluable insights into the dynamics of the literary market. Understanding the elements necessary for a successful publication—from effective promotion to audience engagement—she is well-prepared to navigate the complexities that come with launching her imprint.
The announcement of Hager’s publishing venture comes on the heels of her co-anchor Hoda Kotb’s decision to leave the “Today” show after nearly two decades. As Hoda prepares for a new chapter in her life, transitioning away from the spotlight to focus on family, Hager’s new venture signifies both personal growth and professional evolution. It may even symbolize a broader shift within the media landscape, where individuals leverage their platforms in innovative ways.
Hager’s flourishing career in literature aligns exceptionally well with an ongoing narrative in media—where personalities are diversifying their portfolios and entering realms such as publishing, art, and entrepreneurship. It reflects a generational trend where figures of significant public influence are transcending traditional career paths, reshaping industries while fostering new forms of engagement with their audiences.
Jenna Bush Hager’s launch of Thousand Voices Books represents not only a personal evolution but also an evolving landscape in which media figures are actively sheltering and promoting new literary talent. By focusing on diverse voices and creating space for varied perspectives, Hager’s imprint is poised to make a notable impact in the world of literature. With her passion for storytelling and a solid foundation from her book club, Jenna’s new venture is set to be both a captivating endeavor and an important step toward enriching the literary community.