Gallimard to publish graphic novel version of The Witches

Roald Dahl’s classic children’s novel The Witches is being turned into a graphic novel after Gallimard in France struck a deal with the Roald Dahl Story Company.

Artist Pénélope Bagieu will adapt the story, which will run to 300 pages and will be published in France in early 2020.

Luke Kelly, m.d. of the Roald Dahl Story Company, said: “All of us at the Roald Dahl Story Company are thrilled to be working with Gallimard on Pénélope Bagieu’s wonderfully witty interpretation of The Witches. We’re huge fans of Pénélope’s work, and it’s a great treat watching Pénélope evolve her fresh take on the iconic characters of Grandma and The Grand High Witch. Gallimard is one of our longest-standing publishing partners for Roald Dahl globally and it’s exciting to be embarking on such an innovative piece of publishing with them.”

The graphic novel will be released as part of the company’s “year of the witches”, which will also see the release of a new film adaptation, directed by Robert Zemickis.

Publisher Thierry Laroche acquired French language rights from Alison Cole at David Higham Associates.