Hachette Children's to publish Mandanna's middle-grade fantasy series

Hachette Children’s Group has acquired two middle-grade fantasy adventures inspired by Hindu legends, from UK-based author Sangu Mandanna.

The series is about anxiety, creativity, and discovering strengths you never knew you had, says the publisher. 

The synopsis for the first title, Kiki Kallira Breaks a Kingdom, reads: "Kiki Kallira is more of a worrier than a warrior. Recently her anxiety has been getting out of control, but one thing that has always soothed her is drawing. Kiki's sketchbook is full of fantastical doodles of the Hindu myths and legends her mother has told her since she was tiny. One day, her sketchbook's calming effect is broken when her mythological characters begin springing to life and Kiki is pulled into the mystical world she drew. Kiki must overcome her fear and anxiety to save both worlds – but how can a girl armed with only a pencil defeat a monstrous god?"

Kate Agar, editorial director, acquired UK and Commonwealth rights from Kim Ryan, senior director of subsidiary rights at Penguin US. Kiki Kallira Breaks a Kingdom will be published on 8th July 2021, with the second title to follow in July 2022. 

Agar: "Everyone at Hachette Children's Group is thrilled to have brought Kiki Kallira to the list. Sangu’s writing sparkles on the page, bursting with energy to bring to life a cast of characters we all longed to spend time with. This is combined with a brilliantly authentic experience of a young worrier who has to overcome both battles with monsters and in her own head – providing warmth and comfort for readers who have all had to discover their own inner strength this year."

Mandanna commented: "I can’t wait for this series to be in the hands of young readers, especially after the upheavals of 2020. I couldn’t be prouder or happier that Kiki has found such a fabulous home with Kate and the rest of the incredible team at Hachette."

Mandanna has previously published young adult novels in the US. Hachette Children’s Group will be her first UK publishing home.