Amanda Martin launches patriotic children’s book endorsed by Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders

By AI, Created 10:12 AM UTC, May 20, 2026, /AGP/ – Louisiana author and education entrepreneur Amanda Martin is releasing Henry the Star-Spangled Spaniel on June 9 through Forefront Books, with distribution by Simon & Schuster. The time-travel picture book is positioned as both a literacy tool and a tie-in to America’s 250th anniversary in 2026.

Why it matters: - Henry the Star-Spangled Spaniel is aimed at early readers and classrooms, combining basic literacy support with American history. - The book is tied to America’s 250th anniversary, giving schools, libraries and families a themed title for 2026 programming. - Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ endorsement gives the book a high-profile political boost.

What happened: - Louisiana author and education entrepreneur Amanda Martin announced the release of Henry the Star-Spangled Spaniel. - Forefront Books will publish the 32-page illustrated children’s book on June 9, 2026, with distribution by Simon & Schuster. - Pre-orders are open at Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and the book’s website. - The book is already available now at Amazon and Barnes & Noble, according to the release. - Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders endorsed the book, calling it a fun, educational read that brings together early literacy, American history and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.

The details: - The story follows Henry, a curious Cavalier King Charles Spaniel who discovers his birthday is shared with the United States. - Henry travels through America’s founding moments, including the founding of the nation and the signing of the U.S. Constitution. - Illustrator Zoya Malik created the artwork for the book. - The book’s message centers on history, freedom and citizenship as defining parts of American identity. - Martin said the book was created to spark a love of reading while helping children connect with America in an age-appropriate way. - Henry the Star-Spangled Spaniel is designed as a literacy tool for family read-alouds, classrooms and community programs, especially around the Fourth of July. - The book retails for $19.99. - Bulk purchase inquiries from schools, libraries and community organizations are welcome. - Updates and behind-the-scenes content are available on Instagram at @starspangledhenry. - The media contact listed is Amanda Martin at Studyville, with the email Henry@studyville.com and phone number (225) 279-9443.

Between the lines: - The release positions the book as both a commercial product and an educational resource, which broadens its audience beyond typical children’s publishing. - The Freedom250 partnership suggests the launch is meant to ride the national attention around the 250th anniversary of American independence. - Martin’s background as founder and CEO of Studyville gives the project a literacy-focused credential that supports the book’s classroom pitch.

What’s next: - The June 9 publication date will determine whether the book gains traction ahead of summer reading and Fourth of July programming. - School, library and community bulk orders could become a key channel if the title catches on with educators and family groups. - Freedom250-related promotion may continue through 2026 as America approaches its 250th anniversary.

The bottom line: - Amanda Martin is turning a patriotic picture book into a literacy product, a history lesson and a 2026 anniversary tie-in all at once.