HarperNonFiction snaps up Nicola Nuttall's 'powerful' memoir about loss and love

HarperNonFiction has snapped up Nicola Nuttall’s memoir, The Stars Will Still Be There, which tells the story of her daughter, Laura.

Former HarperNonFiction publishing director Kelly Ellis bought world all-language rights to the book from Charlotte Robertson at Robertson Murray Literary Agency. With publishing director Ajda Vucicevic overseeing publication, the memoir will be released on 9th May in hardback, audiobook and e-book.

"When Nicola Nuttall was told that her 18-year-old daughter Laura had only 12 months to live, following a diagnosis of the most aggressive form of brain cancer, glioblastoma multiforme, she couldn’t begin to process her emotions," the synopsis says. "It was her greatest fear come true. But while her mother struggled to adjust and searched for new treatments, Laura made a decision: she would live her life to the full and embark on an extraordinary bucket list."

The synopsis adds: "Meeting Michelle Obama, piloting a Royal Navy ship, skydiving, going on safari in South Africa, driving monster trucks, taking tea at the Ritz, dancing on stage in front of thousands and graduating from university were just some of the many adventures Laura undertook.

"The Stars Will Still Be There is Nicola’s raw but beautifully written account of helping her daughter make the most of her final days, while dealing with her own pain along with that of her younger daughter Gracie and husband Mark. It reveals the fragility of humans, the power of love and shows why we should all ‘Be More Laura’ every day."

Nuttall said: “The last five years have contained extraordinary highs and the most crushing lows imaginable. As a family we have experienced both unparalleled kindness and devastating heartbreak, it’s been a journey like no other and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to share it in this book. I hope that readers will buckle up and ride the rollercoaster with us and, who knows, perhaps Laura’s story might inspire us all to look at the world with new eyes, to appreciate the small things and make the most of every day.”

Vucicevic added: "This is one of the most powerful memoirs I have ever read. While Nicola and her family have had to face the most unimaginable tragedy, this book is an outstanding testament of how one family can find the strength to carry on. And it’s all because of what Laura has taught them. It’s inspiring in so many ways, and offers so much love, hope and comfort. It’s a must-read book, and one that will stay with you long after you have finished it.”