S&S to publish 'powerful, beautiful and personal' book from Tom Percival

Simon & Schuster Children's UK has acquired two picture books from author and illustrator Tom Percival. 

Helen Mackenzie Smith, editorial director of picture books and novelties, acquired world rights from Mandy Suhr at Miles Scott Children's Literary Agency. 

The first book, The Invisible, with be published in February 2021, with rights already sold in Greece. The second book will follow in January 2022. 

The Invisible is the story of a young girl called Isabel and her family, who one day can't pay their rent and bills and have to leave their happy home. It's the story of the overlooked in our society—those who are made to feel invisible—and why everyone has a place here.

The Invisible will be supported with a "thoughtful and impactful" marketing and publicity campaign to convey the powerful subject matter. The campaign will work alongside charity partners and give Tom Percival's personal perspective on the story. 

Percival said: "The Invisible is a very personal book for me. I grew up in poverty, living in a caravan in rural Shropshire and often felt overlooked and out of place with my jumble-sale clothes and hand-me-down shoes. I’m thrilled that Simon & Schuster are willing to explore topics like this in their picture book list. It’s testament to our shared belief that books can help make the world a better place."

Mackenzie Smith added: "The Invisible is a powerful, beautiful and personal book, which shines a light on those who are all too often invisible in our society and celebrates those who make a difference. The book is poignant and important; I love it."