Firefly to publish Chester's middle grade novel about selective mutism

Firefly Press has acquired Call Me Lion, a middle grade novel about selective mutism by Camilla Chester. 

Penny Thomas, publisher, bought UK and Commonwealth rights from Veronique Baxter at David Higham Associates. Publication is scheduled for summer 2022. 

The synopsis reads: "Leo loves to dance. But he thinks it’s impossible to have friends when he can’t talk. So why is Richa, the girl who has just moved in next door still trying? There’s a heatwave in Luton and it’s too hot for him to think about all of this complicated stuff. But Leo’s life is about to change..."

"This is such a wonderful, bittersweet but happy book," said Thomas. "The characters bubble with life and energy, and we are delighted to be publishing their story."

Chester commented: "Firefly is exactly the right publisher for both myself and Call Me Lion. I feel in very safe hands and excited about the next part of our journey."