Oxford Children's lassoes two picture books from Lancet-Grant

Oxford Children’s has signed a "lasso-swinging" picture book adventure in a two-book deal with Jodie Lancet-Grant.

Publisher Katie Haworth acquired world publishing rights from Anwen Hooson at Bird Literary Agency. The Legend of the Wild West Twins, the first book in the deal illustrated by Katie Cottle, will be published in May 2024 with the second book in the deal following in spring 2025.

In a wild west entirely populated by children, The Legend of the Wild West Twins follows twin sisters Buffalo Lil and Buffalo Jill as they confront their hero, Yeehaw Jack, in a cowboy contest. The book is inspired by Lancet-Green’s experience raising twins.

Lancet-Grant said: “I am delighted to be publishing more books with OUP. I can’t wait for the world to meet Lil and Jill, and for readers to join them as they learn to accept themselves exactly as they are – while also exposing the bad guy for the rotten apple he is. I love how vividly Katie Cottle has brought these characters to life."

Haworth commented: "It’s a lasso-swinging adventure with an important message at its heart. In Jodie’s brilliant new story, we see two very different twin sisters who save the day together in their own, individual ways – proving that there’s no ‘right’ way to be a girl (or indeed a cowgirl!). Katie’s vivid desert colour palette and expressive depiction of the characters is vivid and appealing. Young readers are going to love this for its adventure, humour, and heart.”