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Hodder & Stoughton imprint Coronet has acquired a “remarkable memoir” by a woman who, at the age of 39, was able to hear for the first time in her life.
Editorial director Charlotte Hardman bought British Commonwealth rights including Canada and exclusive Europe to Jo Milne’s memoir from Diane Banks of Diane Banks Associates.
Milne had an operation to fit cochlear implants, and a video showing the moment the implants were switched on went viral.
The memoir is co-written with journalist Anna Wharton, and is “a beautiful portrait of a life lived without sound (and more recently without sight too) until the operation that would change Jo’s life led her on a journey of discovery experiencing music, voices and sounds for the very first time”.
Hardman said: “I was overwhelmed by Jo’s story - like the other millions of people who watched the video of Jo’s life-changing moment, I was instantly grabbed by the enormity of the moment and the impact it would have on her life.
“Her life story is beautifully written with brilliantly observed detail and very fond storytelling throughout. This memoir is both heart-breaking and heart-warming but ultimately beautifully moving and incredibly uplifting.’
Milne said: “When my implants were switched on it changed my life forever. The genuine joy and kindness of people all over the world has touched me beyond belief. I hope my story will not only raise awareness but inspire others to see the positives by living life to the full... every day."
Coronet will publish in hardback and e-book in spring 2015, with a paperback a year later.