Jacinda Ardern to publish debut picture book with Penguin Random House NZ

It was announced today that Penguin Random House New Zealand and Australia will publish Mum’s Busy Work by Rt Hon Dame Jacinda Ardern, former prime minister, on September 30, 2025. The US (Penguin Random House), and UK (Pan Macmillan) editions will publish at the same time. 

This book celebrates the relationship between working mothers and their children through sharing real conversations the former prime minister had with her young daughter during her time in office. With striking art from Ruby Jones, Mum’s Busy Work shows how even when apart the love between a parent and their child is unquestionable. 

“Mum’s Busy Work is based on the words and lessons taught to me by my daughter while I was prime minister of New Zealand. My hope is that every child knows that no matter what, they are our life’s greatest work,” says Jacinda Ardern. 

Catherine O’Loughlin, Publisher at Penguin Random House New Zealand, says: “We are delighted to welcome Jacinda Ardern to our children’s list. Beautifully illustrated by Ruby Jones, who skilfully captures a child’s perspective, Mum’s Busy Work is the story of a whirlwind work week that will resonate with many households throughout Aotearoa.”

Ruby Jones, illustrator of Mum's Busy Work, says,  “I’ve always wanted to work on a book for children. However, illustrating one for Jacinda – a woman I have admired for years – was well beyond anything I could have ever dreamt of. I think Mum’s Busy Work perfectly captures the little family moments that feed our hearts during our busy lives, and I hope it brings joy to parents and children everywhere.” 

About the Author:

Jacinda Ardern was elected prime minister of New Zealand in 2017 at the age of thirty-seven and became the country’s youngest prime minister in more than 150 years. In 2018, she gave birth to her daughter, Neve, and became the first leader of a country in thirty years to give birth while in office and the second only in global history. In 2023, she became a Dame Grand Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit. She now spends her time writing, speaking, learning, and being a mum. You can follow her on Instagram @JacindaArdern.

About the Illustrator: 

Ruby Jones is an illustrator from Christchurch. She likes to make art that shines a little light on the everyday moments we share with ourselves, each other, and the world around us. Ruby’s illustrations often explore ideas around love, relationships, mental health, and body image. Ruby’s famous illustration following the March 15th terror attacks in Christchurch graced the cover of TIME magazine and she has worked on campaigns with Amnesty International, Nespresso, BIC, Accor Hotels, HP, Invivo X SJP, and many more. She has also released two books with Penguin Random House, All of This Is For You (2019) and In This Body (2022). You can visit her at RubyAliceRose.com or follow her on Instagram @RubyAliceRose.