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Bonnier Books UK launches new children’s imprint Hatch Press
Bonnier Books UK (BBUK) has announced the launch of a new children’s imprint, Hatch Press, described as “the home of creativity, inspiration and amazing adventures through history” and led by Kieran Hood.
Hatch Press will publish non-fiction, hands-on learning, and art and activity titles for readers aged between three and 12 years old. Bonnier says Hatch Press was born from the extensive backlist of Salariya. In November 2022, BBUK completed the post-liquidation purchase of The Salariya Book Company assets, and acquired the backlist rights to all its IP-owned projects, which transferred over to BBUK in their entirety.
Taking inspiration from its “treasure trove” of titles, Hatch will publish refreshed editions of Salariya’s backlist before “embarking on an exciting new frontlist of books that builds on the established bestsellers and introduces fresh IP to engage and enrich the next generation of young readers".
The new imprint aims to publish around 30 books a year, with the first titles scheduled for publication in January 2024. The launch list includes: a refresh of the How to Draw series; narrative non-fiction in the form of The Eureka Moment; the Boredom Buster series of activity titles; and the Tickle Your Brain joke book series.
Kieran Hood joined BBUK as senior designer at Templar in 2015, before most recently taking on the design and development manager role, with the broad remit of developing systems and reviewing publishing processes across the Children’s trade business. He said of his new role: “I cannot wait to see the first books from Hatch Press in the shops next year. It’s so important to me to see beautiful, well-designed books that are both affordable and accessible to all reading abilities. Hatch is called Hatch because it’s the start of an idea and the beginning of something great, be it igniting a creative interest, or a subject in school that was previously dismissed. It’s a cracking list: terrific subjects, interesting takes and attractive books."
Helen Wicks, managing director of children’s trade at Bonnier Books UK, added: “We are delighted to have been given this opportunity to breathe new life into a redoubtable independent imprint. Founded in 1989 by David Salariya, the publisher was home to many award-winning, innovative and engaging titles. It succeeded in introducing humour, quality illustration and fun into the process of learning. And, in doing so, it enriched the lives of so many. At Bonnier Books UK, we are committed to continuing this legacy. With a wide range of stunning titles on the way, Hatch will offer something for every fledgling reader.”
