HCG signs 'laugh-out-loud' confused feminist diary

Hachette Children’s Group will publish Diary of a Confused Feminist by debut author Kate Weston next year, after striking a two-book deal with the former stand-up comedian. 

Sarah Lambert, publishing director at Hachette Children’s Group acquired world rights, including TV and film, in two books from Alice Sutherland-Hawes at Madeleine Milburn Agency.

"Diary of a Confused Feminist tells the story of Kat Evans, who wants desperately to do good feminism, but isn’t always sure what it means," reads the synopsis. "She also wants to be a writer, get together with Hot Josh (is this a feminist ambition!?) and win at her coursework. But the path to true feminism is filled with mortifying incidents, muddling moments and Instagram hell, and when everything at school gets a bit too much, Kat knows the only way out is to ask for help."

Weston, who works for Hodder Education, said: "I wanted to honestly capture the anxiety, contradictions and confusion of being a young woman today and I hope that in Kat I’ve created a character that all young people can identify with. A lot of things in the book were taboo when I was Kat’s age. Especially periods. Something which I firmly believe we should talk about freely at all times. I can’t wait for everyone to meet Kat. Except my parents, because she’s quite rude."

The book will be a major YA launch for Hachette Children’s group in February 2020, supported by a significant marketing and publicity campaign.

Lambert added: "Kate Weston is a comedy genius for a new generation of teen readers who are confronting feminism, sex and relationships head-on. Diary of a Confused Feminist is bold, authentic and laugh-out-loud funny. We are over our mooncups to be publishing it!’

Sutherland-Hawes said: "Both Kate and Kat are absolute stars and I’m so thrilled they’ve found a home with Hachette Children’s Group. Kate’s writing is hilarious and so honest – I can’t wait for everyone to cackle the way I do whenever I read this book! Recognising and reflecting the shift in discussions of sex, relationships and feminism with a direct and downright hilarious approach, Diary of a Confused Feminist tackles timely issues in a truly unique and accessible way."