Firefly Press signs middle-grade verse novel from Faulkner

Firefly Press has signed Digging for Victory, a “breathtaking” début verse novel from Cathy Faulkner. 

Publisher Penny Thomas acquired UK and Commonwealth rights, excluding Canada, from Silvia Molteni at PFD. The novel is slated for publication in summer 2023. 

“Cathy has written a truly breathtaking verse novel which is simultaneously clever and sensitive,” editor Leonie Lock said. “Her words transport the reader back in time to skulk through the night, uncovering secrets with the feisty protagonist, Bonnie. I hope young readers find this title just as inspiring and moving as I do!”

Digging for Victory follows 12-year-old Bonnie Roberts who is desperate to help in the war effort like her RAF pilot brother Ralph. When Mr Fisher is billeted to her farmhouse and her brother is reported missing in action, Bonnie starts to question what heroism really is and as she uncovers Mr Fisher’s identity, she comes across a life-changing discovery. 

Faulkner said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be publishing a novel with Firefly. The team have been so welcoming and supportive, and it’s such a pleasure to feel so involved with the creative decision making even at this very early stage. I’ve had great fun writing Digging for Victory and can’t wait to see it in the hands of young readers.”