Acquisition Announcement

Little Tiger has acquired a dynamic YA thriller from Scarlett Dunmore.

Publishing in Fall 2024, How to Survive a Teen Horror Movie is a fast-paced, tongue-in-cheek twist on the classic teen horror – perfect for Halloween reading!

Karelle Tobias, Junior Editor at Little Tiger, acquired world all-languages rights in How to Survive a Teen Horror Movie and its sequel from Silvia Molteni at Peter Fraser and Dunlop Literary Agents for publication in Fall 2024.

Horror enthusiast Charley is determined to put her past behind her and keep a low profile when she’s enrolled to a boarding school on a remote island. That is until a golden-masked killer begins terrorising the girls at her school, with its victims’ ghosts insistent that Charley avenge them.

Now Charley and her best (and only) friend Olive must use their horror knowledge to unmask the killer before they raise havoc at the Halloween Formal…

A fast-paced tongue in cheek novel about two friends trying to survive senior year – literally!

Perfect for fans of Fear Street, The Midnight Club and the Scream franchise.

 Karelle Tobias, Junior Editor said:

As an avid horror fan, How to Survive makes brilliant use of the tropes we’ve come to expect and love, but with a great twist that will leave readers hooked right till the very end. Scarlett’s pacy writing, combined with the perfect dose of frightening thrills and humour, captivated me immediately. I cannot wait to work with Scarlett and develop this spooktacular series.

Scarlett Dunmore said:

How to Survive was a really fun book to write with Little Tiger. I enjoyed pulling from iconic horror directors like Wes Craven and John Carpenter to create some witty characters and entertaining jump-scares. I can’t wait to dive back into this storyworld for the next book!

Little Tiger will publish How to Survive a Teen Horror Movie in Fall 2024.

Scarlett studied English and Creative Writing, eventually finding a love for YA literature. When she’s not writing, she can often be found watching scary films or exploring abandoned abbeys, old cemeteries and ruined castles in Scotland for inspiration.

Instagram: @scarlett_dunmore

Little Tiger to publish Becoming Brave – a heartfelt biographical picture book about love, grief and believing in yourself from double debut Jennie Cashman Wilson and Tomekah George.

Managing Editor Nicola Edwards acquired world rights in all languages for Cashman’s lyrical text, working editorially on the title alongside Senior Editor Isabel Otter. Illustrator Tomekah George was brought on board by Art Director Emma Jennings.

Following Jennie and her relationship with her late husband, critically acclaimed jazz musician Abram Wilson, Becoming Brave is both an exploration of grief and a celebration of courage. Jennie Cashman Wilson is the founder of The Abram Wilson charity – an organisation that works to open doors to minoritised young talent in the music industry. You can read more about their aims here.

If you want to try new things, you have to be brave. But you can’t be brave without also being scared.

While Jennie grew up wanting to please other people, Abram followed his heart from an early age. The two couldn’t have been more different, and yet when they met Jennie fell in love with Abram’s fearlessness.

But when life takes a turn for the worse and Abram is no longer by Jennie’s side, will she find her own courage? 

This poignant and heartfelt picture book explores themes of love, grief and believing in yourself in a gentle and uplifting way. With a contemporary setting and characters that many readers will relate to, this book is great for inspiring children and starting important conversations. 

Cashman Wilson says: “The first time I told the Becoming Brave story was to an audience of about 1,000 primary-school children at Birmingham Symphony Hall. It was my sixth and final year of getting up on stage and telling these bright young things stories about courage and fear, me and Abram. When I got off stage someone suggested I turn the story into a children’s book. This turned out to be the spark of an idea that quickly snowballed into what eventually became an actual, real-life children’s book. Becoming Brave has been a journey in itself, weathering the formal withdrawal of the UK from the EU, a global pandemic, a war in Ukraine and a cost-of-living crisis. It feels like if ever there were a time for courage it is now. I feel deeply privileged to have had the opportunity to share mine and Abram’s story in such a beautiful and creative way and I’m so grateful to Little Tiger for involving me in the process in the way they did. I’m also indebted to Tomekah George who worked so hard on making mine and Abram’s story come to life, I couldn’t have asked for a better illustrator. Her involvement in this book has been a crucial part of the Becoming Brave journey and I’m extremely thankful to Little Tiger for investing the time and resources that are so necessary to develop emerging talent. I hope you enjoy reading Becoming Brave as much as we enjoyed making it.”

Edwards commented: You know some manuscripts are special the moment they cross your desk, and that was unquestionably the case with Jennie’s deeply moving story of love and loss. It explores not only grief but the way that fear and bravery are inextricably linked and that our hard times can be the catalyst for real and positive change. Jennie’s passion for helping young people find their power really shines through in this inspirational story of what it means to face our fears and live boldly, no matter what life throws at us along the way.

Jennings added: We knew we needed to find a very special illustrator to bring this true story of love, loss and hope to life. As soon as we saw Tomekah’s portfolio we fell in love with her striking, dynamic artwork and knew that she would be able to visually explore the nature of fear and bravery. Her emotive illustrations perfectly captured the different energies of Abram and Jennie’s characters and evoked the spirit of jazz music that infuses the story. She was a joy to work with!

George commented: “I’m honoured to be a part of sharing such a beautiful story, I can’t wait to see it in the wild!”

Little Tiger will publish Becoming Brave in August 2023.

About the Abram Wilson charity: Abram Wilson was a critically acclaimed and award-winning jazz trumpeter musician from New Orleans, who made London his home and forged a name for himself on the UK jazz scene. By 2012 he was at the height of his creative abilities and in the middle of a UK tour with his band when he became increasingly unwell. Abram died a few weeks later on Saturday 9^th June from cancer. He was 38.

www.abramwilson.com

His wife and manager Jennie Cashman Wilson founded the Abram Wilson charity in his memory. She says:

“Throughout his career, Abram touched thousands of lives with his music, workshops and projects. He was a creative spirit but he knew that building a career as a freelance musician was really tough.  Someone of his ability and stature could have played with anybody, yet time and time again he would take on much younger, less experienced musicians and mentor, educate and encourage them. When Abram died, the kernel of an idea to somehow continue the work that we had begun together was formed.”

That idea has since grown into the Abram Wilson charity today. Abram’s experiences have influenced how the charity’s programmes happen, as part of an exciting and thriving UK jazz scene. The Abram Wilson charity continues to work hard to inspire a new generation of talent that is representative of the society we live in.

Little Tiger has acquired world rights for The Best You, a new picture book by Mindful Champs founder, Nima Patel

We are delighted to present The Best you, an inspirational and thought-provoking picture book from the Mindful Champs founder and mindfulness advocate Nima Patel: The Best You.

We often ask children, “What do you want to be when you grow up?”, expecting that they want to be astronauts, activists, artists or athletes. We want them to see the wide world of possibility that lies before them, but what about the incredible potential that is already within them?  

The Best You celebrates all the wonderful qualities that children have and can develop, and reminds us all that what really matters is being the best you that you can be.

Author Nima Patel commented:

“The Best You was written out of a deep desire to draw attention to a narrative which I believe constricts children from growing with true purpose and authenticity. As adults, we are continually asking children WHAT they want to be when they grow up. They are put under so much pressure from a young age to choose a career path or to get top marks that it ends up leading to their success becoming largely measured in terms of that alone.

The Best You aims to shift this narrative and, instead, focus on asking children WHO they want to be when they grow up. By teaching children to develop traits of good character first and foremost, we can prepare them to thrive in any situation they may face. And as children practise skills that promote character development, they build a reservoir of strength that they can draw on throughout their lives. Confidence, determination, resilience and honesty are just some examples of traits that can sustain children at home, at school and in the big world out there.

I have had an incredible experience working with Little Tiger on my first book. Writing a book with a team that really understood my vision, as well as the value in the message I wanted to deliver, was so important for me. From editor to illustrator and everyone in between, Little Tiger have been an absolute dream to work with.”

Illustrator Cally Johnson-Isaacs commented:

“As a lifelong yoga and mindfulness enthusiast, in recent years I have enjoyed dedicating my artwork to positive affirmations, movement and breath.

I feel it’s truly important for children to benefit from the simple practice of bringing a gentle, accepting attitude to the present moment. How wonderful it is to create illustrations for a beautiful book which will promote peace, happiness, kindness and a pathway for discovering the best version of ‘you’. I am very proud to be part of such a creatively fulfilling project.”

Nik Bhatia, Sales, Rights & Marketing Director said:

“In an increasingly pressurised world, The Best You is a much-needed celebration of the positive traits that will help children thrive, and that we should all be encouraging as mindful parents and caregivers. With gorgeous illustrations by Cally Johnson-Isaacs, this life-affirming picture book is the perfect addition to the Little Tiger list. We are delighted to be partnering with Nima Patel to help young children reach their full potential.”

The Best You publishes in January 2024.

 Little Tiger has acquired world rights for new series, ‘Keisha Jones’ by debut author Natalie Denny, illustrated by Chanté Timothy

Keisha Jones is an appealing and timely series with a fearless black girl at its heart. Keisha is an empowering role model who’s itching to stand up to the world.

Funny and engaging and vibrantly illustrated by Chanté Timothy, the series is written in first-person and has an interactive page design, incorporating letters, emails and texts.

Jane Harris, Associate Publisher at Little Tiger, acquired world rights from Chloe Seager at Madeleine Milburn and Charlie Moyler, Art Director at Little Tiger, acquired illustration rights from Lydia Silver at Darley Anderson.

Keisha Jones Takes on the World is the first book in the series and publishes in August 2023 and is ideal for newly independent readers.

Brimming with ideas and passion, Keisha’s determined to stamp down injustices and stand up for what she believes … even if it does lead to a spot of trouble!

When Grandpa Joe tells Keisha about Great Aunt Bee, who was a lawyer and an activist, Keisha is determined to follow in her footsteps. Forming the Bee Squad, she enlists her friends KD and Paisley to help put an end to inequality. Soon they have their first cause.

Keisha is incensed to discover that her local pet shop is selling male rabbits for more than female rabbits. It’s time to takes matters into her own hands and stand up for rabbits’ rights!

Jane Harris, Associate Publisher who acquired the series said:

“Working with Natalie on Keisha Jones has been a total joy. Natalie has created a warm, funny character fizzing with personality and brimming with ideas (some of which are wonderfully outlandish!). Keisha’s indomitable spirit and sense of justice shine through in every scene and her escapades are sure to delight young readers. Chanté Timothy’s bold and expressive illustrations are a perfect fit and bring Keisha’s world to life brilliantly. Little Tiger Fiction are over the moon to welcome Natalie and Chanté to the list, and we can’t wait to introduce readers to the force of nature that is Keisha Jones!”

Natalie Denny said:

“Introducing pint sized activist, Keisha Jones, and her wild and wonderful ways to young readers is a dream come true! Keisha is a whirlwind of fun and mischief with a heart of gold; passionate about making the world a better place. I am so excited about working on this fantastic series with Little Tiger and where Keisha’s journey may take us!”

 Chanté Timothy said  “I’m looking forward to everyone experiencing a whole host of expressive characters, especially Keisha who I think will inspire critical thinking and bring a smile to faces.”

Keisha Jones Takes on the World publishes in August 2023, followed by book 2 in 2024, entitled Keisha Jones is a Force of Nature.

Little Tiger has acquired world rights for new Middle Grade adventure series by author, Sufiya Ahmed 

Little Tiger is delighted to announce the acquisition of Sufiya Ahmed’s exciting new series, THE TIME TRAVELLERS.

This new series for 8+ readers brings the past to life. Join three adventurous children as they travel to amazing places across the world and throughout history, meeting historical legends and learning more about themselves.

Mattie Whitehead, Senior Editor at Little Tiger, acquired world rights, all languages for two books from Sophie Gorell Barnes at MBA Literary Agency.  

Suhana, Mia and Ayaan are doing their best(ish) to work together on a school trip, but it’s not easy. They are NOT friends and being in parliament is weird! It gets EVEN WEIRDER when they find themselves in 1911! They are amazed to see people from all over the world taking part in women’s suffrage demonstration. Suhana wants to learn more, but Mia and Ayaan are anxious to get back. Then they lose each other… Will they be able to get back to the present, without changing the course of history forever?  

Sufiya Ahmed said:  

“I am so excited for young readers to meet Suhana, Mia and Ayaan on their adventures through time. The Time Travellers think they know it all when it comes to British history, but the reality they encounter in the past has them questioning everything. I feel passionately about our British shared history, and Suhana, Mia and Ayaan make it their mission to bring it to light.” 

Mattie Whitehead commented:  

“There is still so much to explore when it comes to the past, and who better to introduce readers to fascinating history than Sufiya! Combining all her strengths, THE TIME TRAVELLERS is a fun and exciting series with brilliant characters and adventure (as well as being full of intrigue and discussion points!). I can’t wait to time travel with Suhana, Mia and Ayaan – readers are in for a treat!”

The first book in THE TIME TRAVELLERS series publishes in February 2024, followed by book two in Autumn 2024.

10 February 2023 

Little Tiger has acquired world rights for a new series of Middle Grade fantasy fiction by Annabelle Sami, Dreamweavers. 

Little Tiger has acquired a 4 book children’s fantasy fiction series from award-winning author Annabelle Sami, Dreamweavers.

Mattie Whitehead, Senior Editor at Little Tiger, acquired world rights in all languages for 4 books from Davinia Andrew-Lynch at Andlyn. Sophie Bransby, Designer at Little Tiger, acquired illustration rights from Jennifer Rofé, Andrea Brown Literacy Agency.

Illustrated by Forrest Burdett, Dreamweavers is fresh, fun and full of heart, and features Annabelle’s signature creativity and humour, pitched at readers ages 8+

Meet the ultimate Dream Team! When Tito becomes friends with the mysterious new girl at school, Neena, she introduces him to the world of Dreamweaving. Soon Tito and Neena are going on adventures every night – exploring dreams where quirky creatures called jinn roam. And when their classmates start acting strangely, they realize someone else is using Dreamweaving to cause chaos. Can Tito and Neena stop them before the dream world takes over the waking world? 

Mattie Whitehead, Senior Editor said: 

“I am SO excited to be working with Annabelle on a new project – and what a project! With new friendships, mysterious antagonists, influences from Northern Pakistani culture and heaps of magical fun, readers will be gripped. Forrest’s artwork is the perfect fit and I can’t wait to see him bring our dream team to life.” 

Sami said:  

” I’m thrilled to be diving into the fantasy world with Dreamweavers. I’ve always believed that books and stories are magical, so writing a story full of magic and mayhem is a dream come true. I hope readers will love sensitive Tito, his eccentric Mums, oddball friends and the enigmatic Neena. Working with Mattie on this project has been a joy and I can’t wait to see the book out in the world! 

Burdett also commented: 

“This magical tale has been a dream to work on (no pun intended)! There’s magic and adventure that I think children will be clamouring for, and I have been having a blast bringing it all to life! I am so grateful to be working on this project, and I look forward to others experiencing the wonderful whimsy that Annabelle has lovingly crafted.” 

Dreamweavers: The Night of the Scary Fairies, the first book in this series will be published in September 2023 with books 2 and 3 publishing in 2024 and book 4 in 2025.

Forrest Burdett – Illustrator