TV presenter Thistleton to pen ‘agony aunt’ title

Orion Children’s Books, part of the Hachette Children’s Group, is to publish a collection of problem letters written by young people and answered by TV and radio presenter Katie Thistleton.

Orion will put a call out to Thistleton’s fans via a dedicated website, asking them to send in their problems in a letter format. Submissions can be made via an email address katie@dearkatie.co.uk and names and details will be changed to provide anonymity.

The letters, with answers from Thistleton and an accredited psychologist, will then be published in summer 2017 in the book Dear Katie.

Helen Thomas, editorial director of Orion Children’s Books, brokered the deal for world rights with Claire Wilson from Rogers, Coleridge and White Literacy Agency.

Hilary Murray Hill, c.e.o. of Hachette Children’s Group, said: “We pride ourselves at Hachette Children’s Group on publishing books which speak directly to our audience, providing engaging, inspirational and relevant content. Dear Katie will cover a range of real concerns about growing up, from friendships and love to bullying, puberty, body image and mental health.”

Thistleton is also an ambassador for mental health charity Mind.