Coming April 22, 2025 / Available for Pre-Order
And Then Came You
When Families Grow, Love Grows Too
by Christina Shawn and Shahrzad Maydani
Children's: Picture book
Christina Shawn's AND THEN CAME YOU, is about a reluctant child who resists the addition of each new family member until she realizes that when families grow, love grows too.
Ariel Richardson at Chronicle has bought world rights to And Then Came You by Christina Shawn (l.), illustrated by Shahrzad Maydani. This picture book is about a child happy with one parent, who has to adjust to the fun and the not-so-fun parts when a second parent, a new pet, and a sibling are added to the family. Publication is set for spring 2024; Mary Cummings of Great River Literary, in association with Betsy Amster Literary Enterprises, represented the author, and Kirsten Hall at Catbird Productions represented the illustrator.
Praise for AND THEN CAME YOU
This story makes me laugh as well as tear up. I wish I had this book as a child when I was going through changes. The illustrations are gorgeous and pair perfectly with the sweet messages of family growth and thriving through change--even if at first, there's resistance.
This story is applicable in many scenarios--new baby, blended families, new pets, and more.
On top of being lyrically beautiful, there's a playfulness that's simply pitch-perfect and totally kid-friendly.
Christina Shawn knows how to step into the hearts and minds of kids to give a voice to their feelings.
I also found myself staring at each spread in wonder--truly brilliant art work.
I HIGHLY recommend adding this book to your library!
- Lizzie Brooks, author
“Belongs on every shelf.
There are certain books that you know right away can be read over and over again without losing their power and beauty. This book is one of them. The message, along with amazing illustrations is timeless and would make a wonderful addition to your collection.”
“Full of humor and heart a relatable read and perfect story to help readers see the positives of a growing family (both human and furry). Sweet rhymes and soft illustrations bring a sense of warmth to the challenges that come with change.”
- Amanda Davis
“An honest depiction of how hard change can be evolves into a lyrical love letter, written to families of all shapes and sizes. Shawn writes with child-centered compassion and openhearted joy.”
—Liz Garton Scanlon, author of Caldecott Honor winner All the World
Art by Shahrzad Maydani