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Hachette Children’s has bagged a four-book deal for a new two-colour graphic novel series from author-illustrator Tom McLaughlin.
Nazima Abdillahi, commissioning editor, acquired world rights from Caroline Walsh at David Higham Associates. Alan, King of the Universe, the first book in the series, will be published in February 2025 in hardback for readers aged seven and over.
"The minute Tom’s proposal for Alan, King of the Universe hit my desk, it was clear that Alan was destined to conquer the hearts of young readers everywhere," said Walsh. "The graphic-novel form is the perfect showcase for Tom’s trademark laugh-out-loud humour, super-smart wit and stylish art."
Alan, King of the Universe follows a power-hungry orange cat with opposable thumbs and his dog sidekick Fido.
Abdillahi commented: "Tom has created the book my cat-lover heart always wanted with this hilarious, adventurous offering. I immediately fell in love with Alan, who has fast become my favourite megalomaniac, and loveable Fido. I am honoured to have been enlisted on their mission to take over the universe and can’t wait to get their adventures into young readers’ paws."
McLaughlin added: "I’m so excited to be working on my first graphic novel series with Hachette Children’s. As a writer and illustrator, I’m always trying to connect with young readers by making them laugh, and what better format is there to do this than with graphic novels? Alan has always been lurking around in my brain, in one way or another, and finally I’m able to share him with the world. I couldn’t imagine a better team to work with to help bring him to life. Who knows, maybe Alan will get his wish and finally be King of the Universe?’