Andrews McMeel acquires Hicks-Wilson's 'unforgettable' debut collection

Andrews McMeel Publishing has acquired a “stirring and unforgettable” debut poetry collection by British-Caribbean poet and writer Della Hicks-Wilson.

Editor Hannah Dussold acquired world English rights from Silé Edwards at Mushens Entertainment in an exclusive submission. Small Cures will be published on 15th June 2021.

The synopsis states: “Originally self-published, the debut collection features 150 raw and powerful poems, weaved together into an empowering book-length ode to self-love. Told in three compelling, lyrical parts – diagnosis, treatment and recovery – Small Cures serves as a transformative and soul-soothing companion for anyone navigating life’s losses, heartbreaks and breakthroughs.”

The poet said: “I am beyond excited for Small Cures to join this incredible canon of raw, accessible and relatable poetry which has become such a vital sub-genre in the world of poetry. To do this with Hannah and the team at Andrews McMeel, has been an absolute dream. My collection is dedicated to the unhealed, which feels very much like a collective state of being right now, so I hope she continues to find her place on many bookshelves, nightstands and hearts across the world.”

Hicks-Wilson’s short viral poems and spoken word videos have garnered over one million likes and shares to date. Her debut collection Small Cures was originally self-published in 2020 and selected by Stylist as a "Best Summer Read" that year.

Dussold said: “From the very beginning I knew that Small Cures would be right at home on our poetry list. Della’s writing is genuine and powerful and will resonate with anyone who has felt heartbreak or grief in these unpredictable times.”

Edwards, who moved to Mushens Entertainment from Curtis Brown last year, added: "This is the first time Mushens Entertainment has done a deal with Andrews McMeel Publishing, and I couldn’t be happier to start our working relationship with this book. Della is such a talent, and the response to her poetry has been incredible. I’m excited to share Small Cures with an even wider audience."