Old Barn Books scoops Dassu's Kicked Out

Old Barn Books has scooped Kicked Out by A M Dassu, the sequel to the novel Boy, Everywhere (Old Barn Books). 

Publisher Ruth Huddleston acquired UK and Commonwealth rights, excluding Canada, from Julia Churchill at A M Heath Literary Agents. The book will be published in October 2023 in paperback for readers over 10 years old. 

Kicked Out picks up the story of Ali and his refugee friends, Sami and Aadam. The synopsis said: "A powerful story about friendship, family, loyalty and belonging, Kicked Out seeks to combat dangerous stereotypes with Dassu’s trademark empathy."

Huddleston said: "A M Dassu writes from the heart and this feels like the most personal of her novels to date. Written in response to the many questions from readers about ’what happens next?’ to Sami and his friends from Boy, Everywhere, the story is emotional and empathetic, as Dassu’s fans have come to expect.

"We had a fantastic opportunity to bring new readers to Sami and Ali’s world with the publication of the £1 World Book Day 2023 book Boot It! and we are excited to continue the exploration of that world in Kicked Out. It’s a joy to be working with Dassu again on this project."

Dassu added: "The reaction to Boy, Everywhere has been incredible. Readers really connected with Sami and his story resonated with them so much they wanted a sequel to find out if he’d be okay. I was lucky to continue his story in Boot It! and am delighted to now be bringing a different perspective to the friendship group.

"Through Ali’s eyes, I explore the ordeal of being a refugee as an unaccompanied minor, how we can step up, and the role of fathers and the impact an absent parent can have on a young person’s sense of worth. I hope this story encourages discussions, enlightens and changes perceptions too!"

Churchill commented: "A M Dassu and Old Barn Books are a mighty team, and we’re thrilled to be working together once more. Boy, Everywhere looks set to become a modern classic — as each year passes it goes from strength to strength and finds new devotees. Kicked Out is moving and eye-opening, with the strong campaigning themes that readers will recognise from A M Dassu’s first book."