Biddulph brings back Bond's Parsley the Lion for HarperCollins

HarperCollins Children’s Books is bringing back Michael Bond’s classic The Adventures of Parsley the Lion in a new gift edition illustrated by Rob Biddulph.

World rights were acquired by colour publisher Kate Burns from Hilary Delamere at The Agency, representing Bond, and Jodie Hodges at United Agents, representing Biddulph. The Adventures of Parsley the Lion – Welcome to the Herb Garden will be published in hardback in November 2020.

The book tells the tale of Parsley who lives in the magical Herb Garden with excitable friend Dill the dog around. Parsley made his debut in 1968 in the children’s animated TV series “The Herbs”, written by the Paddington Bear creator. He went on to star in his own TV series “The Adventures of Parsley” in 1970, as well as in a series of books and on a wide range of merchandise.

Karen Jankel, Bond’s daughter, said: “Although I was only 10 when 'The Herbs' first aired on television, I clearly remember the events that led up to it. My father was inspired one day when he saw some herbs blowing in the breeze in the garden outside his study window and within a very short space of time Parsley the lion and the other inhabitants of the herb garden were created. I am absolutely delighted that Rob Biddulph has brought them to life once again with his lovely illustrations and look forward to this book introducing my father’s stories to a whole new generation.”

Biddulph explained: “I grew up reading Michael, and if you had told the 10-year-old me that one day I would get to illustrate one of his stories I would probably have given you a very hard stare. To say that it’s an honour to be introducing Parsley and his friends to a whole new generation is something of an understatement. What a thrill! If you like reading this book half as much as I’ve enjoyed illustrating it, then you’re in for a treat.”

Burns added: “As a child, I loved the wonderful world of Parsley the Lion and the Herbs, so what a joy and privilege it is to be bringing the iconic Michael Bond's fabulous storytelling to a new generation of children in collaboration with contemporary picture book rock star Rob Biddulph. Readers will love stepping into the world of the adorable Parsley and his eclectic band of friends brought to life through Rob's inimitable illustrations as the perfect companion to the unique wit and warmth of Michael's stories.”