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Bedford Square Publishers has snapped up Sipsworth, Simon Van Booy’s "succinct and subtle" new novel.
Publisher Carolyn Mays acquired British Commonwealth rights, excluding Canada, from Stephen M Morrison of Susanna Lea Associates. Bedford Square will publish in July 2024, after US publisher David R Godine in May.
The book follows Helen Cartwright, who returns to England after 60 years in Australia following the deaths of her husband and son.
The synopsis says: "Her only wish is to die quickly and without fuss. Helen retreats into her home on Westminster Crescent, becoming a creature of routine and habit. Then, one cold autumn night, a chance encounter with an abandoned pet mouse on the street outside her house sets Helen on a surprising journey of friendship, and a way back into life itself."
Van Booy is the author of more than a dozen books for adults and children, as well as the editor of three volumes of philosophy. His books have been translated into 18 languages and optioned for film.
Mays commented: "Simon has given us something poignant, unexpected, beautifully succinct and subtle. It’s the perfect novel for anyone who has ever loved an animal and I defy anyone who reads it not to be moved."
Van Booy added: "Anyone who has ever loved an animal or gone through a period of extreme loneliness will find meaning in this book, and I feel blessed to be working with Carolyn Mays, one of the nicest and most experienced editors in UK publishing."