Walker buys first children’s book from ST’s Chris Haslam

Walker has acquired a middle grade adventure story set in Cornwall from the Sunday Times chief travel writer Chris Haslam, writing as C J Haslam.

Executive editorial director Denise Johnstone-Burt bought world right in all language to Orla and the Serpent’s Curse from Kate Shaw at the Shaw Agency.

The book tells of Orla Perry, a budding conservationist on a family holiday on the Cornish coast, who finds an ancient necklace in the woods and uncovers a 200-year-old curse that is poisoning the earth. According to a legend, only Orla can stop the curse; but she needs the help of her grumpy family pet, Dave The Dog. “Along with a gang to rival the Famous Five for a new generation, Orla is a timely protagonist with a love of the natural landscape and the passion to protect it,” said the publisher.

Johnstone-Burt said: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Chris to the Walker list with his wonderful children’s debut, Orla and the Serpent’s Curse. His dry wit and sense of adventure shine through this atmospheric Cornish mystery which is perfect for middle grade readers. I knew the minute I met Orla, and her sidekick, Dave, we had to publish this exciting witchy adventure.”

Haslam is the author of three black comedy thrillers for adults, including Twelve Step Fandango, shortlisted for the Edgar Allen Poe award.

Orla and the Serpent’s Curse is scheduled for April 2020.