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HarperCollins Children’s Books has snapped up the debut children’s novel from one of the screenwriters behind “Paddington 2”, Simon Stephenson.
Publishing director Natalie Doherty acquired world rights in The Snowman Code from Caspian Dennis at Abner Stein, on behalf of Mollie Glick at CAA. Michelle Kroes at CAA will handle screen rights. HarperCollins will publish in October 2024.
Aimed at readers aged seven plus, The Snowman Code is described as “a festive future classic that touches on themes of anti-bullying, mental health, the impact of climate change and the lasting power of love and friendship".
“Set in a London experiencing its longest ever winter, The Snowman Code is the story of the unique friendship that develops between Blessing, aged 10-and-a-half, and Albert Framlington, aged 600 – an eccentric snowman who has seen many winters in many cities, but currently resides in Victoria Park, and is duty-bound by the Snowman Code to help any child in need,” the publisher said. “Together, Blessing and Albert must try to find a way to defeat Blessing’s bullies, win back Albert’s long-lost love, and even overcome the never-ending winter itself…”
Actor Jim Broadbent is set to narrate the audio edition, which will publish alongside the hardback and e-book formats in October.
Doherty said: “We’re so proud and delighted to be publishing this first children’s novel from the exceptionally talented Simon Stephenson. We knew that the screenwriter of family gems such as ‘Paddington 2’ and ‘Luca’ would know exactly how to craft a perfect children’s story, but were still blown away by its unique humour, its gorgeous warmth and its classic, fable-like simplicity. We can’t wait to publish in October.”
Stephenson added: “I’ve been in danger of breaching Article 15 of the Snowman Code - ‘A snowman keeps any secret entrusted to him’—ever since I got the news that The Snowman Code had found its dream home with Natalie Doherty and her incredible team at HarperCollins Children’s Books. Albert and Blessing could not possibly be in better hands and I can’t wait to share our story with the young and the maybe not quite-so-young. The news that national treasure Jim Broadbent will be bringing his incredible talents to give voice to the tale is—as Albert Framlington himself would no doubt insist is the correct phrase—the ice thing on the lake.”