Norbury’s The Cat Who Taught Zen signed by Penguin Michael Joseph

Penguin Michael Joseph has signed The Cat Who Taught Zen by James Norbury after previously publishing Big Panda and Tiny Dragon and The Journey.

Dan Bunyard, head of non-fiction, acquired world all-language rights from Ludo Cinelli at Eve White Agency for publication on 28th September 2023. It has sold in five languages so far.

The book charts the story of a wise cat who sets off on a journey to find a legendary tree, under which those who sit will find ultimate wisdom. Along the way, the cat meets a variety of animals with whom he teaches and is taught a variety of parables, with their roots in traditional zen stories.

Norbury said: “I am so pleased to be working with Penguin Michael Joseph again. Dan has been a fantastic editor and helped me to open up new worlds which I’m excited to share with readers. I’m sure anyone who enjoyed Big Panda and Tiny Dragon will find a great deal of value and comfort in The Cat Who Taught Zen."

Bunyard commented: “It’s a delight to be publishing James’s third book. His powers as an artist and storyteller continue to grow. He weaves a tale that is as simple and memorable as it is rich with wisdom. I’m certain readers will fall in love with and relate to its characters, just as they have with panda and dragon.”