Adrian Edmondson pens children’s fiction for Puffin

Actor and comedian Adrian Edmondson is writing a middle-grade children’s fiction novel, entitled Tilly and the Time Machine.

The book is about a girl who lives with her inventor father and was inspired by Edmondson’s next-door neighbour.

Puffin publishing director Shannon Cullen acquired world rights to two standalone novels from Phil McIntyre at Phil McIntyre Entertainments and will be published in April 2017.

Edmondson chose debut illustrator Danny Noble to illustrate the book after spotting the artist’s work on Twitter.

Cullen said: “Ade is a true national treasure and his talents as a writer have naturally translated to the page for a younger audience. His writing is warm, witty and heartfelt, and it has been a joy to work with him on his first novel for children.”

Edmondson is best known for his comedy roles in "The Young Ones" and "Bottom", which he wrote with Rik Mayall. He recently starred in the BBC adaptation of "War and Peace".