Nosy Crow buys two from Alastair Chisholm

Nosy Crow has bought two middle-grade standalone novels by author and puzzle creator Alastair Chisholm.

Senior commissioning editor Tom Bonnick bought world rights in all languages from Caroline Montgomery at Rupert Crew.

The first novel in the deal, Orion Lost, is described as a “hugely gripping science fiction adventure” set on a transport ship which is left stranded in deep space. “Suddenly it’s up to 13-year-old Beth and her friends to navigate through treacherous and uncharted territory to reach safety. But a heavily-damaged ship, space pirate, a mysterious alien species, and an artificial intelligence that Beth doesn’t know if she can trust means that getting home has never been so difficult.”

Chisholm has previously written puzzle books and picture books, but Orion Lost is his first novel. He said: “I wanted to write the kind of story I loved when I was young – with danger, and mystery and cool sci-fi, and kids who sometimes get it rights but sometimes don’t (because that’s what people do) but who are, in the end, awesome. And I’m delighted to be bringing it to life with Nosy Crow – their support and help has been fantastic, and I’m really excited to join the team!”

Bonnick said: “From the first page, I could not put this book down. Thrilling, atmospheric, and with some of the best twists I’ve ever come across, Orion Lost is a fantastic blend of classic science fiction and contemporary storytelling. I’m delighted to be working with Alastair – a hugely exciting new voice in middle-grade fiction.”

UK publication is set for January 2020, with the second standalone novel due out a year later.