Henry VIII-inspired middle-grade series by Danny Wallace signed by S&S

Simon & Schuster Children’s Books has acquired a new middle-grade comedy series by author, performer and presenter Danny Wallace.

Ali Dougal, publishing director, acquired world rights for the text in a two-book deal from Robert Kirby at United Agents. Award-winning Tor Freeman will illustrate the series, with rights acquired from Penny Holroyde at Holroyde Cartey.

The series “chronicles the hilarious mishaps and misdemeanours of an eight-and-a-half-year-old Henry VIII”. The first book, Henry Tudor: The Incredible Diaries of Me!, will be published in paperback in August 2026.

Ali Dougal said: “Danny is a master of situation comedy, and what situation has more comedy potential than the younger life of the most famously horrible royal of them all (possibly). Danny’s Prince Henry is spoiled and selfish with zero self-awareness, which Tor Freeman’s inimitable artwork captures exquisitely. We’re thrilled to be publishing this genius new series on our bestselling fiction list.”

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