MCB unveils Donaldson’s ‘illustrated love letter to readers, bookshops and books’ 

Macmillan Children’s Books (MCB) has acquired Julia Donaldson’s Book of Names, described as an “illustrated love letter to readers, bookshops and books”.

Publishing in hardback in June 2023 and illustrated by award-winning Nila Aye, the gift edition is inspired by the real-life children Donaldson has met at book signings over the years.

The deal for world rights was secured by Hannah Ray, publishing director of picture books at MCB. Donaldson’s text was acquired from Caroline Sheldon at the Caroline Sheldon Literary Agency, and Nila Aye’s illustrations acquired through Claire Meiklejohn at Meiklejohn.

The book draws on many of the names of the children for whom Donaldson has signed a book at the countless events, performances and book signings she has done over the past 30 years, including a six-week UK-wide libraries tour while she was Children’s Laureate, the publisher says.

“Julia has always loved meeting her readers, and this book is in celebration of them, it adds. “From months of the year, colours, flowers, food and gemstones, Julia has seamlessly grouped a charming selection of the names and woven them together with her unmistakable rhyme. Paired with Nila’s stunning illustrations, the final book is a playful and joyous celebration of the diversity of names.

“Set in a magical transforming bookshop, Julia Donaldson’s Book of Names is a beautifully and imaginatively illustrated love letter to the world of books and the children who enjoy them. As well as relishing the names in the book, readers might even find inspiration for naming a new baby, pet or toy!”

Ray said: “We are thrilled to be publishing this unique book from Julia Donaldson and Nila Aye. We loved Julia’s brilliant rhyming text from the minute she shared it with us, and Nila is the perfect illustrator to bring Julia’s words to life. Her witty, imaginative artwork is instantly engaging and packed full of character. Julia Donaldson’sBook of Names is a delight, and it’s very special to be publishing a book so directly inspired by the children that Julia has met at events and signings over the years.”

Belinda Ioni Rasmussen, managing director of MCB, added: "Julia has travelled the world and has tirelessly signed hundreds of thousands of her books for young fans. Only she would have thought to celebrate them in this way. We are delighted to be able to publish this extraordinary project that celebrates both the current reader of the book as well as the children she has met over the years. The book is a legacy of Julia’s work as the number one picture book author today."

Donaldson commented: “Over the years many children and parents at book-signings have seen my face light up and heard me exclaim, ‘A new name!’ This book has been inspired by the names of those children whose books I have signed over the years. From Aaron to Zofia, I have heard so many unique and wonderful names. To amuse myself I’ve enjoyed grouping the names into categories – Scottish Islands, Greek gods, food, plants, weather, etc – and then I couldn’t resist writing a poem to celebrate them all.”

Aye said she felt “very honoured to have been chosen to illustrate Julia Donaldson’s Book of Names”, adding: “It truly is a special book celebrating children’s individuality and the joy of reading. As a children’s book illustrator, to be given a wonderful text by such a special author, and told to just run with it and have fun.” 

Julia Donaldson’s Book of Names will be a superlead title on MCB’s picture book list and be accompanied by a high-profile communications campaign. It will also be MCB’s hero title for Independent Bookshop Week with signed copies, signings, and POS.