**Viola Davis and Lavaille Lavette Collaborate on a New Middle Grade Novel**
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Viola Davis, the celebrated EGOT-winning actress, is venturing into the realm of children’s literature with her latest project, a middle grade book titled *Girl, I Think My Grandma’s a Spy*. Teaming up with long-time friend and bestselling author Lavaille Lavette, the pair are excited to bring their creative vision to life. The book is scheduled for release on March 2, 2027, by Henry Holt and Co. as part of its imprint for young readers.

The story centres on a 13-year-old girl named Jazzlyn, who is initially less than thrilled about her estranged great-grandmother, Grandma Mae, moving in with her. Jazz is preoccupied with the typical concerns of adolescence, such as school, friends, and an upcoming dance, and the last thing she wants is her grandmother invading her space. However, what starts as a family adjustment soon turns into an unexpected adventure.
As the narrative unfolds, Jazz begins to notice peculiar behaviours from Grandma Mae. The elderly woman is seen sneaking out under the cover of darkness and even makes appearances at Jazz’s school as a substitute teacher. Jazz’s curiosity piques when she decides to follow Mae one evening into the city, only to uncover a shocking revelation: her grandmother leads a double life as a secret agent. This twist invites readers into a world of intrigue and excitement, providing a perfect foundation for a series aimed at children aged 8 to 12.
Both Davis and Lavette expressed their elation about the collaborative process, describing it as a “joyful creative journey.” In a joint statement, they mentioned, “There’s something incredibly special about creating a story with a friend. From imagining the world of Jazz and Grandma Mae to shaping every twist and surprise, our hope is that young readers find themselves swept up in the adventure and embrace their imaginations.”
The duo’s bond is further emphasised by their previous collaborations, which include Lavette’s work as an editor on Davis’s memoir, *Finding Me*, published in 2022. This latest venture marks a significant moment for Davis, who made her fiction debut earlier this year with *Judge Stone*, a thriller co-authored with the esteemed James Patterson.
Lavaille Lavette, an accomplished author in her own right, brings considerable experience to the project, contributing to a work that strives to capture the imaginations of younger audiences. Both authors hope that readers will form a connection with the characters, echoing their own sentiments of love for Jazz and Grandma Mae.
With *Girl, I Think My Grandma’s a Spy* now available for pre-order, fans of both Davis and Lavette can look forward to an engaging tale that promises to blend humour, adventure, and a touch of family dynamics. The book invites children to not only read but also to explore themes of curiosity and the bonds that can be formed across generations.
As anticipation builds for the book’s release, fans of Viola Davis can look forward to her continued exploration of different genres and formats, while Lavaille Lavette solidifies her reputation as a versatile author capable of engaging young readers. This collaboration not only reflects their friendship and mutual respect but also serves as an encouraging reminder of the power of storytelling.
For those interested in following this exciting new path for Davis and Lavette, updates and further information about the book are likely to emerge as the publication date approaches. This project holds promise not only as a captivating read but also as a new chapter in the careers of two remarkable storytellers.
