Oxford Children's scoops 'enchanting' new series from Muncaster

Oxford Children’s Books has scooped a new "enchanting" underwater series from Harriet Muncaster, author of the Isadora Moon series. 

Lou John, head of reading, acquired world rights from Jodie Hodges at United Agents. The first book in the series, Emerald and the Ocean Parade, will be published on 2nd March 2023, coinciding with World Book Day, and will be bolstered by an "extensive" national publicity campaign. Later instalments in the series are planned for release later in 2023 and beyond. 

The Emerald series will be the latest edition to the world of Isadora Moon. Readers were first introduced to Isadora’s mermaid friend Emerald in Isadora Moon Under The Sea. According to the publisher, the "acclaimed" Isadora Moon series has sold over four million copies in 37 languages since it was first published in 2016. In October 2022, Sky Kids announced a 52-episode television series of Isadora Moon produced by Kelebek media. 

In Emerald and the Ocean Parade, Emerald is learning how to be a mermaid princess while staying true to herself. Combined with "stunning" green and black illustrations throughout, the series is "bound to inspire and delight even the most reluctant of readers". 

Deborah Sims, editor, said: “We first met Emerald, the loveable, rebellious mermaid princess in Isadora Moon Under the Sea, and I am thrilled that she’s now got her very own series! The Emerald stories are packed full of underwater fun and adventure, plus of course that irresistible sparkle that Harriet Muncaster brings to everything she does. The world of Isadora Moon is expanding, and I can’t wait for everyone to come and dive in!” 

Muncaster added: “I am so excited about my new mermaid series! I have always wanted to write a book about mermaids and it’s been so much fun getting to explore a new corner of the Isadora Moon universe. Emerald is not your typical mermaid and I just love how her punky gothic style contrasts against the rest of her shimmery, sparkly underwater world. I can’t wait to see what adventures she has next, as she finds her own way of being a mermaid princess!”