HarperCollins Children's Books Acquires Publishing Rights to Bestselling Brand

Posted on January 7, 1999

HarperCollins Children's Books announces that it has acquired the publishing rights to the best-selling Once Upon a Potty books by Alona Frankel, and has signed the author to a 10 book deal. With over 3 million copies sold, the Once Upon A Potty books have become popular children's books on potty training -- renowned as "those little red books on potty training."

President and Publisher Susan Katz said "We are extremely pleased to welcome Alona Frankel and these delightful children's classics to HarperCollins. Prudence and Joshua are wonderful children's book characters, and this new program will introduce them to an even wider audience of toddlers and their parents."

"I am delighted to become a part of the HarperCollins family. My decision was influenced not only by the stature of HarperCollins Children's Books, but it's dedicated staff members," stated author and illustrator, Alona Frankel.

Beginning in the spring of 1999, HarperCollins will publish redesigned Boy and Girl editions of Once Upon A Potty. The books will keep their signature color and will feature a removable achievement chart with stickers. In fall of 1999, HarperCollins will release new Once Upon A Potty book and doll packages, and will introduce Once Upon A Potty book and cassette packages featuring original music.

The year 2000 marks the debut of the first four titles in the new book program based on the popular Potty characters, Joshua and Prudence. The new stories will feature similar childhood situations and experiences. Two titles per season will be published thereafter.