Zondervan Announces Zondervan First, a New Direct-to-Digital Imprint

By Press Release

Grand Rapids, MI, June 4, 2012—Zondervan has announced Zondervan First, a new direct-to-digital publishing imprint. The new imprint launches today with the acquisition of the first fiction title, Love in Three-Quarter Time by Dina Sleiman. Zondervan First will provide fresh and relevant content across all reading devices. Authors who publish under this model will have the same access to the Zondervan editorial and marketing teams as those published traditionally, which sets this program apart from other direct-to-digital publishers.

“We are thrilled to launch Zondervan First,” notes Scott Macdonald, President and CEO. “This digital imprint will give voice to notable content utilizing our editorial, marketing and creative expertise.”

Love in Three-Quarter Time, a historical novel set in 1817 Virginia by Dina Sleiman will be the first title published through Zondervan First. "Dina's novel represents the type of story we are looking for in our fiction offerings via Zondervan First, and I am delighted Dina’s novel will soon be available,” said Sue Brower, Executive Editor.
Zondervan First will initially focus on fiction but will eventually branch out to all the categories the company currently publishes. Submissions will be accepted for fiction, non-fiction and Bible material suitable for kids, teens and adults in addition to manuscripts geared for curriculum, church resources, academic and reference books. By publishing through the new imprint, authors will have the full backing of the Zondervan brand.

“As an industry leader, we developed Zondervan First to honor authors, agents and numerous consumers,” comments Steve Sammons, Executive Vice President for Consumer Engagement. “Our editorial staff and sales, marketing and publicity force are uniquely respected, and Zondervan First authors will benefit from those existing talents, platforms and relationships.”

Zondervan First will begin accepting all submissions, agented and non-agented, for consideration immediately. To view submission requirements or to submit a manuscript, visit www.ZondervanFirst.com.