Effective May 7, Semareh Al-Hillal has been named publisher at Groundwood Books, the Canadian children's publisher founded in 1978 that is now part of House of Anansi Press and is distributed in the U.S. by PGW. Al-Hillal is currently associate publisher at Kids Can Press, where she has been for 18 years.
Sarah MacLachlan, president of House of Anansi Press and Groundwood Books, said the current team "will flourish under Semareh's leadership."
Scott Griffin, owner and chairman of the board of House of Anansi and Groundwood Books, added: "Semareh's extensive experience and expertise in the publishing of children's literature makes her a fitting replacement for the outstanding leadership of Sheila Barry."
"I am honored to be given the chance to build on the strong foundation laid by founding publisher Patsy Aldana and continue the wonderful work of Sheila Barry and other Groundwood staff past and present," said Al-Hillal. "The thought of being able to uphold and further Groundwood's stellar reputation and prestigious list is very exciting to me. I'm looking forward to working with all of the talented creators and staff to create important, magical, diverse books that engage, transport and reflect young readers."