Kimani Press to launch new line of books marketed to black teens

(September 27, 2006) Kimani Press has announced plans to launch Kimani Tru, a new line of fiction written for African-American teens, that will spotlight young, emerging literary talent. The debut in February 2007 will feature two releases, and thereafter one compelling novel each month. Kimani Tru titles will address the triumphs, issues and concerns of today’s youth with candor, wit and realism.

“African-American teens are underserved in today’s literary climate with stories that solely dwell on the negative influences of the streets” states Linda Gill (above), general manager of Kimani Press. “Our goal is to reach out and embrace young adult readers with stories that are true to their life experiences, but that also encourage growth, and empowerment.  At times, teens feel alone with the issues they are facing. In Kimani Tru novels they will meet characters they can ultimately learn from.”

Featured authors for the new imprint include 17-year old Cassandra Carter, with her debut novel Fast Life, and under-25 author Cecil Cross II capturing the life of a graduating high-school senior attending college in First Semester.  Novels will also be penned by best-loved authors such as Monica McKayhan (Indigo Summer), Earl Sewell (Daddy’s #1 Girl), and Joyce E. Davis (Can’t Stop the Shine) who have crafted entertaining reads that will appeal to all teens.

“Kimani Tru is a rare imprint in the young adult marketplace,” states Evette Porter, editor at Kimani Press. “These novels will speak to them in a voice that relates to the range of their experience in today’s complex world,” she continues.

Kimani Press is a division of Harlequin Enterprises, Ltd. targeting African-American readers which also publishes imprints Arabesque, Sepia, New Spirit and Kimani Romance.

Harlequin supports this innovative imprint with a launch marketing program that includes targeted mobile, digital and innovative grass-roots campaigns. In addition, advertising support will be driven to select consumer and trade publications. The marketing program also includes exciting e-marketing online at African-American and young adult sites, plus a dedicated site, www.kimanitru.com.


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