Macmillan Children’s Books signs two-book deal with Gladiators' 'Fury' Jodie Ounsley

Macmillan Children’s Books has acquired the rights for a two-book deal with the former England rugby player, Paralympian broadcaster and star of BBC show ’Gladiators’, Jodie Ounsley—also known as "Fury".

Her début book, Keep Smashing It! Be Strong, Be Brave, Be Confident, is co-written with sports journalist Becky Grey, and draws on Jodie’s experience as a deaf athlete, from childhood right up until her current role on Gladiators.

Cate Augustin, editorial director at Macmillan Children’s Books, bought world rights from Lydia Silver and Becca Langton at Darley Anderson.

Ounsley was the first female deaf rugby player to compete internationally, and her first book will publish in Spring 2025.

Ounsley said: “Keep Smashing It! Be Strong, Be Brave, Be Confident is a mantra I live by, especially as ‘Fury’ in Gladiators. Confidence isn’t something that has come naturally to me—when I was young I had to learn how to be brave and push myself to ‘do it anyway’, often when I felt scared and unsure. In this book I hope to help young people believe in themselves, find their confidence and reach for their dreams by developing a positive and determined mindset. I hope to be a role model for kids who are deaf, have a disability or maybe just feel a little different to others. We all need a strong role model growing up!”

Augustin says: “Kids love reading books by their role models, and at MCB we look to publish bestsellers that can change lives. Jodie has a powerful message of hope and self-belief that kids need to hear, and we are delighted to help Jodie share this with readers.”

Samantha Smith, publisher of fiction, non-fiction and picture books at Macmillan Children’s Books says: "At MCB we’re passionate about bringing the best voices and most inspirational stories to our readers. We’re so pleased to be partnering with Jodie, who we know is just as passionate about reaching young people with her message that being different is a superpower. Her book brims with advice and top tips that will inspire readers to back themselves, be resilient and smash any barriers in their way."