Farshore snaps up two magical fiction series from McLachlan

Farshore has snapped up two “exciting” new magical fiction series from Jenny McLachlan. 

Liz Bankes, editorial director, signed deals for a brand-new middle-grade series Dead Good Detectives and a young fiction series called Stink which marks McLachlan’s debut in the role of illustrator. Bankes acquired world rights in all languages from Julia Churchill of A M Heath. Dead Good Detectives publishes in summer 2022, for ages eight-plus and Stink in 2023 for ages seven and over. 

Dead Good Detectives follows 11-year-old Sidonie Jones who, after accidentally opening the doorway to a spectral tavern in her local graveyard, must now help a host of lost souls depart peacefully. It will be illustrated by Chloe Dominique and accompanied by a “huge” marketing and PR campaign that “will engage thousands of children”.  

Meanwhile, Stink tells the tale of “the rudest fairy you’re ever going to meet, chocolate-themed parties and a world record amount of troll poos”.  

McLachlan said: “When I was little, my dream was to write and illustrate children’s books so I can’t quite believe it’s going to happen. Thank you, Farshore! Stink – definitely the smallest and rudest character I’ve ever created – has been causing mischief in my imagination for years; I can’t wait to finally unleash her on my readers.” 

Bankes added: “We could not be more proud and excited to be going on another funny, magical and epic adventure with Jenny (and a hilarious band of ghosts) in Dead Good Detectives. And then to be introducing the world’s funniest fairy, Stink, to have 7+ readers howling with laughter next year. This young fiction series, and Jenny’s debut as an illustrator, shows that not only is she a comedy genius, but a true star of children’s publishing–welcoming readers of all ages into her magical worlds.”