Joanne Harris to publish lockdown writing guide with September

September Publishing is to release a new guide to writing by Chocolat creator Joanne Harris.

The independent publisher obtained UK and Commonwealth rights to Ten Things about Writing: Building Your Story, One Word at a Time from Jon Wood at Rogers, Coleridge & White.

The title will be released as an e-book on 11th May, followed by a print edition on 10th December.

Harris commented: "Lockdown has changed our landscape, and after many requests from writers for help and advice in this difficult time, I decided to launch this project 'Ten Things About Writing'. I chose to go with a small press to show my support for a sector of the publishing industry that is under particular stress, and to bring out the book as an e-book at first, to enable those who need it most to access it immediately."

September publisher Hannah MacDonald said: "It's incredibly exciting to have an author of Joanne Harris' established success and influence on September's list. We are thrilled to be publishing her treasure trove of motivating advice and creative wisdom for aspiring writers.

"Many 'How To Write' books tend to be practical but uninspiring, whilst essays on an author's craft aren't always helpful. By contrast Joanne's book is genuinely helpful on writing and the publishing industry—and also very funny."

Harris is currently chair of the Society of Authors management committee.