Tanglewood Publishing Donates The Kissing Hand to Unite Communities Touched By Violence
Indianapolis, IN — November 15, 2016: Tanglewood Publishing has partnered with libraries in communities where gun violence that gained national attention occurred to organize events that promote healing through the use of its children’s book, The Kissing Hand. Three events were held in St. Paul, Minnesota, four in Dallas, Texas, and another is scheduled in North Charleston, South Carolina, on Dec. 10.
“We were deeply moved by the joint cookout hosted by the Wichita, Kansas chapter of Black Lives Matter and the Wichita Police Department. This showing of solidarity among community members motivated us to inspire more events that would support communities coming together in the same way.” said Tanglewood publisher Peggy Tierney. “Libraries are a beacon of hope and an equalizer in ensuring that all citizens have access to books and technology. It seemed that a library would be a natural location and partner for such events.”
Tierney committed to donating 250 copies of The Kissing Hand to libraries that agreed to host an event in a community where gun violence had occurred. The author of the book, Audrey Penn, enthusiastically agreed to the donation as she wants The Kissing Hand to help facilitate healing discussions with children. Library partners were encouraged to work with a local chapter of Black Lives Matter (or similar organization) and the local law enforcement so both groups would have an equal part in delivering the donated books into the community.
“It was a wonderful event…we were able to open up conversations about safety, fear, anxiety, and comfort with children and caregivers in a safe and festive environment,” said Sun Ray Library manager Katrina Hartz Taylor, who helped organized an event in St. Paul. “Sometimes conversations like this can be difficult, but books are great tools for safely exploring uncomfortable topics.”
To date, Tanglewood has committed to donating 750 copies of The Kissing Hand and has created a downloadable guide, which can be found on their website, for anyone who wants to use the book to unite their community.
The publisher welcomes participation from more libraries. If you are interested in hosting a unity event, contact Tanglewood director of marketing Ayanna Coleman at ayanna@tanglewoodbooks.com.
About The Kissing Hand
In The Kissing Hand, school is starting in the forest but Chester Raccoon does not want to go. To help ease Chester’s fears, Mrs. Raccoon shares a family secret called The Kissing Hand to give him the reassurance of her love any time his world feels a little scary. Since its first publication in 1993, this heartwarming book has become a children’s classic that touches the lives of millions of children and their parents, especially during times of anxiety.
About Tanglewood Publishing
Tanglewood Publishing was founded in 2003. An independent publisher based in Indianapolis, Tanglewood boasts a roster of award-winning authors and illustrators including Audrey Penn, Marie LeTourneau, and Mike Mullin. In every Tanglewood book readers will find a sense of comfort that comes with being seen and understood. Through humor, adventure, disaster, disappointment, friendship, and love, Tanglewood brings the authentic young reader’s voice to the forefront for an unforgettable page-turning experience, opening up the doors to more adventures rooted in more pages. You can learn more about Tanglewood Publishing at tanglewoodbooks.com
Contact: Laura Mancuso
(415) 238-3212 | laura.mancuso@me.com
