Allen & Unwin nabs debut 'book club novel' by Naseer

Allen & Unwin has nabbed The Cry of the Silkworm, the first novel by Shi Naseer, in which she explores China’s one-child policy.

Senior editor Kate Ballard acquired UK and commonwealth rights from Hayley Steed at Madeleine Milburn Agency, and the book will be published in hardback and e-book in June 2024.

The synopsis says: "The Cry of the Silkworm tells the story of Chen Di, a determined young girl growing up in rural China in the 1990s, whose grief following her mother’s untimely death as a consequence of the one-child policy ignites her thirst for vengeance against those she holds responsible.

"As she navigates her emotions, Chen Di transforms from a gutsy, marginalised child into an aikido-practising young woman who braves Shanghai. A gripping coming-of-age tale that illuminates the ripple effect of the authoritarian regime’s policies still being felt today, the book is perfect for readers of A Thousand Splendid Suns and The Beekeeper of Aleppo."

Naseer grew up in China under the one-child policy before immigrating to Australia and subsequently earning a master’s in mathematics from Cambridge University and PhD in black hole physics from Harvard University.

She said: "I am humbled by the opportunity to share this story, one of ordeal and of hope that’s so close to my heart, that challenged my own generation in China.

"I’m grateful to my agent, Hayley, for her insights and unwavering belief, and to my brilliant editor, Kate, and her entire team for giving this story a perfect home."

Ballard added: "I was impressed by Shi’s writing in this gripping debut, finding myself reeled into Chen Di’s story from the get-go – intrigued by her mission in seeking justice for her mother, and fascinated by her village childhood and seeing through her experience the profound impact of the one-child policy on young girls.

"The accessible writing style and vivid evocation of its setting, together with an imperfect, relatable and engaging protagonist in Chen Di, The Cry of the Silkworm has great commercial potential in that female-focused area of the accessible literary market."

Steed commented: "I am in awe of Shi Naseer’s talent, not only as a writer, but in the wonderful discussions we had around this book and her life. Her debut novel is a testament to her thoughtful approach to the world, as well as being an incredibly emotional exploration of the one-child policy and its impact on all different kinds of people."