Scholastic, a global children’s publishing, education and media company, has announced a publishing deal with Nickelodeon to publish books about Alaya “That Girl Lay Lay” High.
“Scholastic is the perfect partner to bring such amazing talent like Lay Lay to her fans in the form of a memoir,” says Lourdes Arocho, vice president, licensing, ViacomCBS. “This book provides a window into who Lay Lay is beyond her social media platforms. Her story is that of a young visionary changing the industry and definition of what it means to be a multi-talented artist and role model for this upcoming generation.”
Under the terms of the deal, Scholastic has secured U.S. and Canadian rights to the property across all storybook formats, including activity books, novelty books, journals and more. The program will launch with a full-color photographic memoir, “That Girl Lay Lay: It’s Time to #Slay,” on Jan. 4. The books will expand Lay Lay’s overall deal with Nickelodeon, which includes a comedy television series that launched Sept. 23, and an exclusive line of consumer products spanning categories such as clothing, accessories, toys and more.
"Working with Nickelodeon has been filled with blessings,” says Alaya “That Girl Lay Lay” High. “Not only do I have my own comedy series with my name attached but now I have a series of books I am releasing through Nickelodeon and Scholastic that I couldn’t be more proud of. These books will allow me to tell my stories and help other kids realize their dreams!"
The first title in the new Lay Lay publishing program, “That Girl Lay Lay: It’s Time to #Slay,” will include exclusive content and color photos of Lay Lay on every page in a scrapbook-style format. The memoir will share the rapper’s journey with readers ages 7 to 10, from going viral after rapping in her dad’s car and beyond. “Bust Your Own Rhymes,” a guided journal, will release in February, followed by the first book in an original chapter book series in May. The illustrated chapter books will star Lay Lay and her music group as they come up with new routines, perform for their fans and more
“’That Girl Lay Lay’ is a force,” says Debra Dorfman, vice president and publisher, global licensing, media and brands, Scholastic. “We are truly excited to partner with her and Nickelodeon to showcase Lay Lay's positive messages, confidence, passion for music, dance and everything glam. She has big dreams, and we are thrilled to be a part of them.”
