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Celebrating 40 Years of The Baby-Sitters Club

As we approach 2026, one of the most iconic children’s book series is set to celebrate a remarkable milestone: the 40th anniversary of Ann M. Martin's beloved "The Baby-Sitters Club." Launched in 1986, this series has delighted young readers for decades and continues to captivate new generations. Scholastic Inc. has exciting plans to mark this special occasion with a lineup of new releases that aim to connect fans old and new with the adventures of Kristy, Claudia, Mary Anne, and Stacey.

New Titles to Celebrate a Milestone

On September 15, 2026, two renowned authors, Raina Telgemeier and Gale Galligan, will join forces to release "The Baby-Sitters Club Super Special: Baby-sitters on Board!" This graphic novel is an adaptation of the inaugural Baby-Sitters Club Super Special originally published in 1988. Promising to embody the charm and camaraderie that fans love, this edition will take readers on an exciting vacation experience, showcasing the characters on a cruise to the Bahamas and their visit to an amusement park. The journey promises not just fun but also memorable babysitting adventures.

The celebration doesn’t stop there—April 2026 will see the introduction of "The Baby-Sitters Club Friendship Crafts," a fun-filled craft book from the editors of Klutz. This unique offering will include a personal message from Ann M. Martin, along with materials for fans to create friendship-themed crafts, such as pins and bracelets, inspired by their favorite characters.

In a first-of-its-kind initiative, "The Baby-Sitters Club: Fan Edition - Baby-sitter Summer" is set for release on July 7, 2026. This special spin-off features contributions from a collection of top authors, each penning a chapter from the perspective of a beloved character. Martin herself will revisit Mary Anne's narrative, exploring the summer experiences of the BSC members as they navigate their friendships and adventures in Stoneybrook.

A Legacy of Connection

The Baby-Sitters Club series has become a cultural phenomenon, recognized for its powerful storytelling and relatable characters. Since its inception, it has grown to encompass over 250 titles, along with graphic novel adaptations and various spin-offs. The series has inspired countless fans to form their own babysitting clubs, empowering young readers to take initiative and engage with their communities.

Publisher David Levithan expresses the joy of witnessing generations of readers embracing the series. He notes, "One of the joys of The Baby-Sitters Club is that we now have generations of fans who think of the BSC as their own." The forthcoming anniversaries and newly crafted editions are sure to resonate with both nostalgic readers and new enthusiasts.

The original author, Ann M. Martin, reflects on the remarkable journey the series has undergone over the decades. "It's hard to believe it's been nearly four decades since the adventures of Kristy, Claudia, Mary Anne, and Stacey began," she shares, feeling grateful for the series' lasting impact on the literary landscape.

Embracing the Superstars of Comics

The collaboration between Telgemeier and Galligan marks a full-circle moment for The Baby-Sitters Club. Both authors are immensely passionate about the series and have already made significant contributions through their previous graphic novel adaptations. Their return to the series is eagerly anticipated, drawing excitement from fans who appreciate their distinct storytelling styles and character-driven narratives.

Looking Ahead

As The Baby-Sitters Club embraces this monumental year, fans can look forward to reliving the magic that started with Kristy’s brilliant business idea nearly forty years ago. With innovative crafts and fresh adaptations hitting the shelves, Scholastic is set to reignite interest and appreciation for a series that has captured hearts worldwide. It’s not just a celebration of a series; it’s an acknowledgment of community, friendship, and the journey of growing up through shared experiences.

For more updates and details about the upcoming releases, fans are encouraged to visit Scholastic’s media room. Together, let’s celebrate the enduring legacy of The Baby-Sitters Club and the joy it continues to bring to readers everywhere.