Basketball Superstar Caitlin Clark to Publish Debut Children's Picture Book With RHCB
Caitlin Clark (Photo Credit: Indiana Fever)
Caitlin Clark, one of the most celebrated basketball players of all time and a generational sports icon, has written a children’s book that will be published by Random House Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Random House Children’s Books, it was announced on Tuesday, April 28, by Michelle Nagler, SVP & Publisher, Random House Books for Young Readers Group. Sara Sargent, Editorial Director, Rodale Kids, acquired world rights to EXTRAordinary! A Little EXTRA to Reach BIG Dreams from Alan Zucker at Excel Sports Management, with illustrations from AJ Zhang at Astound US Inc. Clark’s first-ever children’s book was illustrated by Adriana Predoi.
Since joining the Indiana Fever as the #1 pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, Clark has helped usher in an era of unprecedented crowds, viewership, and cultural momentum for women’s basketball. She inspires fans across generations, many of them young people who proudly wear her jersey to games and look to her as a role model both on and off the court. Clark’s
influence continues to grow as she inspires people through her determination, generosity, and enthusiastic spirit.
In her debut picture book, Clark shares a personal and uplifting message about finding the extraordinary in every day. Told in lively, rhyming verse, EXTRAordinary!’s hopeful message shows us what is possible when you give a little extra to the
moments and people that matter most.
The inspiration for the book comes from a mirror that hung in Clark’s childhood room, bearing the quote “The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is the little EXTRA.” The mirror served as a daily reminder of what mattered most to Clark long before she became a household name. That deeply personal inspiration is woven throughout EXTRAordinary!, offering readers a tender glimpse into who Clark is beyond the spotlight.
“Basketball has given me so many incredible opportunities, but what has always meant the most to me are the people who’ve supported me along the way,” said Clark. “I hope this book reminds kids that they’re never alone in chasing their dreams and that giving a little extra to the people and moments is what makes them EXTRAordinary.”
“Caitlin is deeply connected to the people and the communities who have supported her along her journey,” said Sargent. “This book reflects the values that have anchored her throughout her life. It’s a joy-filled reminder that success is never achieved alone. EXTRAordinary! is a meaningful and very personal debut, and we’re thrilled to bring it to young readers.”
An audiobook edition will be released simultaneously by Listening Library.