HarperNorth acquires poetry collection to mark felling of Sycamore Gap tree

HarperCollins has acquired a collection of poems inspired by the famous sycamore tree near Hadrian’s Wall that was felled in an act of “unfathomable vandalism” almost exactly a year ago. 

Rights to On Sycamore Gap by poet Kate Fox were acquired by Genevieve Pegg, publisher at HarperNorth, directly from the author.  

On Sycamore Gap will be out in hardback and e-book on 26th September, to mark the anniversary.  

The book has been illustrated with linocut artwork by Northumberland-raised, Orkney printmaker Cat Moore. 

Fox said: “I knew this book had to be hopeful. Even as the unfathomable vandalism was still raw. It turns out that the hope isn’t just in the new growth the tree and its cuttings are sprouting, but in the wider conversations it is helping to spark.” 

Pegg added: “Trees, even the ones we know best, serve as a powerful reminder to us all that when it comes to strength or beauty, growth or persistence—so much of it stems not from what we can see, but from what lies beneath the surface. Kate has captured this beautifully in her words and in tandem with Cat Moore’s stunning linocuts. I hope this is a book that brings solace and hope to readers everywhere.”