HarperCollins scoops ‘intimate tribute’ to Amy Winehouse

HarperCollins has scooped an “intimate tribute” to musician Amy Winehouse, told through never-before-seen journals, handwritten lyrics and family photographs.

Katya Shipster, publishing director at HarperNonFiction, and Lisa Sharkey, senior vice-president and director of creative development at HarperCollins US, acquired world all language rights to Amy Winehouse: In Her Words from Maggie Hanbury at The Hanbury Agency.

The book will feature a “heartfelt” foreword by her parents Janis and Mitch Winehouse and will be illustrated in full colour. It will publish in hardback and e-book on 31st August to mark what would have been Winehouse’s 40th birthday this September.

The publisher said: “Much has been said about Amy Winehouse since her tragic death aged just 27. But who was the real Amy? Amy Winehouse: In Her Words shines a spotlight on her incredible writing talent, her wit, her charm, and lust for life while tracing her creative evolution growing up in North London to global superstardom, providing a rare insight into the girl who grew up to become a legend.”

Mitch and Janis Winehouse said: “This beautiful new collection of Amy’s notes and musings shows another side of Amy – her fun and witty side. We wanted to share this with Amy’s fans so that they too can enjoy Amy, in her words.”

Shipster described the book as “a treasure trove showing Amy’s unparalleled talent and sense of fun" while Sharkey said it “uncovers the heart of the artist who dreamed big and cared deeply”.