Farshore signs Matt Lucas’ first children’s novels, featuring original songs

Farshore has acquired two children’s novels from comedian, writer, and actor Matt Lucas, including original songs written for the book.

Lindsey Heaven, publishing director at Farshore, secured world rights for two books from Amanda Harris at the YMU Group.

Described by the publisher as “Home Alone” meets Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, in the first book in the deal—The Boy Who Slept Through Christmas—Christmas fan Leo is determined to make this Christmas absolutely perfect because it’s the first one without his Mum.

The synopsis adds: “When things go wrong, Leo wishes Christmas would just GO AWAY, but when his wish comes true, and he wakes up on Boxing Day having missed the big day, he sets out on a mission to bring Christmas back.”

Readers of The Boy Who Slept Through Christmas will be able to listen along to over 20 original songs, written and recorded by Matt Lucas to accompany the story, “bringing the joy of a musical to book form”.

The lyrics of each of the songs will be available at the back of the book, along with a QR code for readers to access a website where they can hear the songs. The audiobook, voiced by Lucas, will also feature the music integrated throughout the story.

The book will be published in hardback on 12th October 2023, and be illustrated throughout with “energetic, joyful artwork” from “new talent” Forrest Burdett. Senior designer Ryan Hammond commissioned illustrations from Jennifer Rofé at the Andrea Brown Literary Agency. A second book will follow in 2025.

Lucas said: “I’ve loved working with Farshore on my picture books and non-fiction, and am delighted to be releasing my first novel with them—and it’s a musical one, with over 20 songs in it. It’s been a joy writing this book and creating original songs to bring the story to life. I hope readers enjoy going on this festive adventure with Leo as much as I have!”

Cally Poplak, executive publisher for Farshore and HarperCollins Children’s Books, said: “Farshore’s mission is to make every child a proud reader, giving them all the advantages in life that come with being a reader, so we are excited to broaden our Matt Lucas publishing to appeal to all ages and interests, from picture books and non-fiction to fiction, with a Christmas hug of a story that’s brim-full of Matt’s heart and magical storytelling and Forrest’s joyful illustrations.”

Heaven said: “Leo may sleep through Christmas, but this is the book that’s going to be keeping the nation’s children awake, reading with a torch under the duvet! The story is packed full of unforgettable, heart-warming characters, and told in Matt’s unique comedy voice that speaks directly to his readers. We’re very proud to be bringing Matt’s magical storytelling to the world of children’s fiction.”