Bolinda acquires audio rights to Julian Barnes' Departure(s)

Bolinda Audio has acquired audiobook rights to Departure(s), the latest book from Booker Prize-winner Julian Barnes, which will be published just three days before his 80th birthday. 

Senior audio acquisitions manager Ellis Poolford-Moore acquired UK & Commonwealth (excluding Canada) audiobook rights from Sarah Ballard at C&W. The audiobook, part of which Barnes himself will narrate himself, will publish simultaneously with the print edition on 22nd January 2026, with Barnes turning 80 on the 19th. The print and e-book rights were acquired by Jonathan Cape at Penguin Random House.

Julian Barnes is the Sunday Times bestseller and critically acclaimed author of 14 novels, including The Sense of an Ending, which won the Man Booker Prize in 2011.

Described as a “genre-defying masterpiece”, it follows multiple threads, touching on themes of taking chances, facing fate, finding happiness and knowing when it is time to say goodbye.

Poolford-Moore said: “Julian is a master of his craft, and Departure(s) perfectly encapsulates the beautiful writing, skill and talent that Julian has shared with his readers over his immense writing career. At Bolinda, we’re honoured to be working with Julian on this milestone publication. Having Julian’s voice bring this outstanding novel to life will make this listening experience a truly memorable and wonderful one for his fans.”

Ballard added: “We are delighted to be working with Bolinda on the audiobook of Departure(s). Their trademark passion and expertise in the audiobook market adds something very special to this important work by Julian.”