Moate signs for two science books with Puffin

Puffin has bought two new non-fiction titles: A Very Curious Christmas and How Does it Work? from the BAFTA-winning presenter of CBeebies show “Maddie’s Do You Know?” Maddie Moate. 

The books by the science communicator and YouTuber will also feature illustrations from Paul Boston.

Non-fiction editor Meg Osborne bought world rights in a two-book deal from Jamie Slattery at Mirador Management. The first book will be published in October 2023 and the second in September 2024.

Puffin said it is building on Moate’s brand as a trusted science communicator as well as launching her into seasonal non-fiction, with A Very Curious Christmas publishing in time for the festive period.

“Both titles will cater to curious minds with a combination of fascinating history, accessible science and key STEM concepts, all accompanied by Paul Boston’s immersive and beautifully detailed illustrations,” the publisher said.

Puffin said: “A Very Curious Christmas is the perfect gift to keep children entertained throughout the festive period. From answering questions such as ‘Why do crackers go bang?’, ‘Where do Christmas trees come from?’ and ‘How do fairy lights work?’, to exploring how different people around the world celebrate Christmas and the surprising histories behind Christmas traditions.

“How Does it Work? follows Maddie as she looks inside everyday objects and machines, from matches to microwaves and from smart speakers to solar panels. Starting in the home, the book ventures out into the reader’s neighbourhood, the wider world and even into space. With clear explanations of how machines work and detailed cutaway illustrations, this book is perfect for fans of ’Maddie’s Do You Know?’”

Moate said: “I love exploring how everyday things work and are made through my TV and YouTube programmes – sometimes with a Christmas theme – and with these books I get to bring all of those ideas onto the page. A Very Curious Christmas is packed with curious questions and fun experiments and also looks at the history of cultural traditions and festivals, which I’ve found fascinating to write about. In How Does it Work?, I look deeper into the workings of everyday objects, which are brilliantly brought to life by Paul Boston’s illustrations. I’ve so enjoyed researching and writing these books and can’t wait to share them with readers.”

Osborne said: “Maddie is a brilliant children’s science communicator and storyteller who brings non-fiction topics to life in a fresh, fascinating and joyful way. The content of these two titles is truly global and with two perennial topics, these are sure to be cherished by children and adults for years to come.”

Moate is host of the BAFTA-nominated CBeebies series “Maddie’s Do You Know?”, CBBC’s “Show Me the Honey” and Magnolia Network’s “Make Yourself at Home” on Discovery Plus. She is one of the few family-focused “Edu-tubers” in the UK and has been creating science-based videos for the past decade. She has fronted video series for BBC Earth Unplugged, English Heritage, Fully Charged and LEGO.

Boston is based in South Wales and illustrates books for young people on subjects including inventions, airplanes and trains.