The Bookseller.com

2nd December 2008

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HC signs Walliams for children's book

17.12.07 Alison Flood

Little Britain star David Walliams has signed a deal with HarperCollins for his debut novel for children. A two book deal for world rights was concluded by HarperCollins Children's Books' Ann-Janine Murtagh and Nick Lake with Paul Stevens of Independent Talent Group.

Walliams' first book, as yet untitled, will be published in autumn 2008. It will be a "humorous, classic tale" featuring a boy hero. It will be aimed at eight to eleven year olds but HC said it would also appeal to older readers.

Walliams said: "I am thrilled to be writing a children's book, and hope the story will be funny and thought-provoking.” Murtagh added: "I'm delighted to be publishing David Walliams' book which is my first acquisition for the HCCB list, and brings this exceptional creative talent to the world of children's storytelling. Walliams' playful wit and zestful imagination combine in a highly original story which I know children themselves will adore.”
 
The deal is the latest in a string of celebrities writing children's fiction, with titles this year from glamour model Katie Price and Spice Girl Geri Halliwell. Ricky Gervais won a Nibbie for his Flanimals of the Deep (Faber).

HarperCollins Rights deal children's Alison Flood David Walliams