Corsair signs Pratesi's Pig

Corsair has signed Pig, the debut literary novel about toxic female friendship and manipulation from Matilde Pratesi. 

Olivia Hutchings, editorial director, acquired UK and Commonwealth rights from Thérèse Coen at Susanna Lea Associates. The novel will be published in hardback in May 2025. 

Shortlisted for the Caledonia Novel Prize, Pig follows Valentina, the queer and neurodivergent protagonist, who learns to turn her largest challenge, her obsession with pigs, into a strength. 

The publisher added: "Once, Vale’s love for pigs left her vulnerable to manipulation by her narcissistic best friend and housemate, Clara. The novel begins with Vale attempting to get home on time from her job at a London bookshop to avoid upsetting Clara. She is stuck in a deadening routine of work and home, not allowed to socialise, as her energies are taken up by Clara’s needs. But a chance encounter at the bookshop leads to a book contract for Vale, whose extremely thorough knowledge of pigs impresses Marcus, an editor of new agricultural books. As Vale steps into the world of other people, Clara tightens her grip: she isn’t yet ready to let go of her favourite prey." 

Pratesi said: "I am delighted that Pig has found a home with Olivia and her team at Corsair. From the first time we spoke, I have been bowled over by the enthusiasm, sensitivity, and understanding they have shown towards Vale and her story. I couldn’t be more excited to share this adventure with them." 

Hutchings added: "From the very first page, Pig creates an incredibly unsettling feeling in the reader and when the terrifying truth is revealed, the tension becomes unbearable as you fear for Vale’s safety. But this is ultimately a story of hope – and one that will make you realise the vital importance of having the space to be yourself. Matilde Pratesi has created an extraordinary character in Vale and I cannot wait for readers to meet her and her beloved pigs."