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MCB strikes multi-book deal to create range of original Winnie-the-Pooh picture books
Macmillan Children’s Books has struck a multi-book deal to create a range of “original and exciting” Winnie-the-Pooh picture books.
Penny Morris, associate publisher, acquired world rights in all languages in the new picture books from Stephanie Thwaites at Curtis Brown, acting on behalf of the trustees of Pooh Properties. The new titles will sit on Macmillan Children’s Books’ Classics, Heritage and Gift Books list, home to The Macmillan Alice, and including Chris Riddell’s recent reimagining of Lewis Carroll’s iconic books.
Working closely with the trustees of Pooh Properties and the trustees of the Shepard Trust on the new material, the four books will be written by bestselling author Jeanne Willis writing in the style of A A Milne’s poetry and illustrated by authorised Winnie-the-Pooh artist Mark Burgess, in the style of E H Shepard.
The first book, Winnie-the-Pooh and Me, will be published in hardback on 2nd February 2023, in gift book format with a foiled jacket. It will be supported by a major advertising campaign, brand partnerships, national review and feature coverage and events at festivals across the UK.
The publisher said: “Inspired by Milne’s classic poem, ‘Us Two’ from Now We Are Six, this authorised sequel with its gentle rhyming story and charming illustrations is the perfect gift for old and new fans of the enchanting world of Winnie-the-Pooh. In the delightful new story, someone is following Winnie-the-Pooh and Christopher Robin on their adventure, but who could it be? It can’t be Kanga and Roo – they’re sailing a boat – and it can’t be Owl, because he’s at home. Could it be Heffalumps looking to eat Pooh’s beloved honey? It turns out the followers are Pooh and Christopher’s own shadows, who are best friends too.”
Morris said: “Since I was a small child I have loved Winnie-the-Pooh and it is a dream come true to welcome this beloved bear to our list at Macmillan Children’s Books.”
Barton added: “Over 50 million copies of Winnie-the-Pooh have been sold worldwide since they were first published. We could not be more excited to be working with the trustees to create brand new picture book stories inspired by A A Milne’s wonderful classic poems and to be part of his legacy.”
The Shepard Trust commented: “Winnie-the-Pooh fans and admirers will be delighted by this new poetry book written in the inimitable style of A A Milne and decorated with wonderful drawings in the manner of E H Shepard, taking forward the adventures of Winnie-the-Pooh, Christopher Robin and all the familiar characters of the Hundred Acre Wood – a great treat in store.”
