Exploring “Where to Start”: An Interview with Editor Lauri Hornik
Editor and publisher Lauri Hornik embarked on a mission to find a mental health book that catered to the needs of young people navigating their mental health journey. When she couldn’t find what she was looking for, she collaborated with Mental Health America and artist Gemma Correll to create “Where to Start: A Survival Guide to Anxiety, Depression, and Other Mental Health Challenges.” Since its release in 2023, this book has garnered widespread acclaim and has been featured in publications like People magazine.
Lauri’s career in publishing spans many years, and she recently launched her own imprint, Rocky Pond Books, at Penguin Random House. This imprint focuses on publishing authentic and hopeful mental health stories for children and teenagers.
Mental Health America: Lauri, could you walk us through your background in publishing and the role of an editor in the book creation process?
Lauri Hornik: I started my career as an editorial assistant at a children’s book publisher and worked my way up to become an editor. Editors play a crucial role in finding projects to publish, developing them with authors and illustrators, and advocating for the book within the publishing house. For “Where to Start,” I drew inspiration from my own experiences as a parent navigating mental health issues with my daughter and collaborated with Mental Health America to create a resource that is clear, relatable, and jargon-free.
Mental Health America: You recently launched Rocky Pond Books with a focus on mental health stories. What inspired this initiative?
Lauri Hornik: The inspiration behind Rocky Pond Books was to publish authentic and informative stories about mental illness for children and teenagers. I noticed a gap in the market where most books focused on observing mental illness in others rather than the firsthand experience of those struggling. My goal is to provide comfort and guidance to readers going through difficult emotional challenges.
Mental Health America: You named your imprint Rocky Pond. What does this name signify to you?
Lauri Hornik: Rocky Pond was a significant place from my childhood in New Hampshire, symbolizing bravery, exploration, and growth. The name reflects the idea of pushing through discomfort and navigating challenges—a theme that resonates with the coming-of-age experiences portrayed in the books we publish.
Mental Health America: Your books focus on hopeful narratives rather than bleak outcomes. Why is this narrative of hope essential to you?
Lauri Hornik: I believe that offering guidance and hope to readers, especially young people, as they navigate mental health challenges is crucial. Many existing books often present mental illness in a negative light, but I aim to show that there is richness and resilience in overcoming these struggles. It’s about acknowledging the difficulties while also highlighting the strength and growth that can come from them.
Mental Health America: What was the collaboration process like with Mental Health America in creating “Where to Start”? How did you decide on the resources to include in the book?
Lauri Hornik: Collaborating with Mental Health America allowed us to create a book that was accessible, clear, and free of unnecessary jargon. We wanted to provide readers with a starting point to understand and address their mental health concerns. By focusing on plain language and practical advice, we aimed to make the book a valuable resource for anyone struggling with their mental health.
Mental Health America: “Where to Start” has resonated with a broad audience beyond its intended demographic. Why do you think this book has struck a chord with readers?
Lauri Hornik: The widespread appeal of “Where to Start” can be attributed to its much-needed content and practical approach to mental health challenges. While the book was initially targeted at teens and young adults, its message of hope and guidance has resonated with readers of all ages. It fills a gap in the market by offering relatable and informative content in a visually appealing format.
Mental Health America: The inclusion of artwork by Gemma Correll adds a unique touch to “Where to Start.” How did this collaboration come about, and why do you think illustrations are valuable in young adult books?
Lauri Hornik: Gemma Correll’s artwork perfectly complements the text in “Where to Start,” providing readers with a visual representation of the mental health experience. Her illustrations are relatable, funny, and engaging, making the content more accessible and appealing to a wide audience. Artwork in young adult books can serve as a quick connection point for readers and enhance the overall reading experience.
Mental Health America: “Where to Start” has been well-received by readers and is available for order at the Mental Health America store. What do you believe resonates most with readers about this book?
Lauri Hornik: The popularity of “Where to Start” can be attributed to its relevance, practical advice, and engaging format. Readers appreciate the accessible language, relatable illustrations, and the inclusion of worksheets that enhance the book’s value as a mental health resource. As more people discover the book, its impact continues to grow, helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges with clarity and hope.
Experience the empowering message of “Where to Start: A Survival Guide to Anxiety, Depression, and Other Mental Health Challenges” by ordering your copy from Mental Health America’s store or your favorite book retailer.
