Random House Children’s Books has announced the acquisition of a fantasy adventure series from author Philip Caveney. Sebastian Darke: Prince of Fools will be the first of three novels acquired by Charlie Sheppard at RHCB. Caveney is a copywriter currently living in Manchester.
The author’s début work for children is pitched squarely at the 9+ market. Featuring the eponymous hero (a would-be jester desperate to make money, let alone make people laugh); a shaggy, sarcastic ‘buffalope’ called Max who can talk (and does, at great length); and Cornelius, an unlikely warrior in constant search of adventure, it's described by the publisher as "a fast, funny story that will grip readers from the very first page. Fans of Shrek, Terry Pratchett and The Princess Bride will not be disappointed!"
Charlie Sheppard, Editorial Director at RHCB comments ‘I am hugely excited about this find. Sebastian Darke has everything I look for in a classic children’s book: humour, excitement and a touch of pathos that will speak to generations of children. As I read the manuscript I felt like a ten year old again discovering a lifetime’s favourite book. I can’t wait to get kids reading this book and I’m so thrilled that we’re going to be publishing it.’
The deal is for World Rights, all languages.
Sebastian Darke: Prince of Fools will be published by The Bodley Head hardback in early Spring 2007 to be supported by a "massive publicity and marketing campaign".
Leave a comment