Cassell acquires first book by ex-Saturdays singer Frankie Bridge

Octopus Publishing Group imprint Cassell has acquired the first book by ex-Saturdays singer Frankie Bridge, discussing the effect of isolation on mental health.

Romilly Morgan, senior commissioning editor at Octopus, pre-empted UK and Commonwealth rights from Stephanie Thwaites at Curtis Brown. It will be published in February 2020.

The book, Open, sees the TV star talk about her breakdown and the progress she has made. The synopsis states: “It will also feature practical guidance and advice from the psychologist and psychiatrist who pulled her back from the brink alongside their notes throughout her recovery. In opening up about her battles, she hopes to help a generation of people to be more open about their mental health. Speak out. Ask for help. And be helped.”

Best known as a member of The Saturdays, Bridge became an ambassador for charity Mind after her hospitalisation in May 2012 and has spoken out about her experiences with anxiety, depression and panic attacks.  

She said: “I hope my book will showcase the importance of being open in a shut off world, the need to talk about the good days as well as the bad days, so we can all start to have open and honest conversations about how we really are, not how we think we should be.”

Morgan added: "By opening up and letting others in, Frankie will help readers to understand that they are not alone. Part narrative exploration, part practical guide, Open will help people to understand the importance of talking and helping each other in an imperfect world. It’s a brave and important book, one I am incredibly proud to publish.”