Pavilion to publish Mangan's 'witty' guide to the Chinese Zodiac

Pavilion Books has acquired The Chinese Zodiac: A Seriously Silly Guide, a "witty" guide to the Chinese Zodiac by graphic designer and illustrator Anita Mangan, with words by Sarah Ford. 

Publisher Helen Lewis acquired world rights from Anna Pallai at AMP Literary Agency, with the title to be published on Pavilion's Portico imprint on 14th October 2021. 

The synopsis reads: "Taking the science of the Chinese Zodiac and sprinkling it with British humour, it provides a funny and fascinating look at our personality traits, potential love interests, cool careers, health and hobbies. The first book of its kind, it gives the reader an opportunity for some entertaining self-indulgence and discovery. No doubt, it will soon be pinched by curious friends and onlookers. Illustrated throughout with Mangan’s quirky and colourful drawings, it’s guaranteed to keep the reader chuckling whilst they come to terms with their true animal selves."

The publisher commented: "Anita and Sarah are a winning duo and Anita’s beautifully quirky and hilarious illustrations bring to life her characteristically playful take on the Chinese Zodiac. It’s a wonderful gift that will keep everyone entertained." 

Mangan said: "Along with a lot of people, I’m fascinated by astrology. I also love to draw animals, so here was a perfect chance to combine both interests in the only way I know how, with humour. In the book Sarah Ford writes about the Rooster (me) and Monkey (Sarah) being good business partners: “You two are a funny old mix that works, the job would be done sooner if you spent less time finding each other so amusing.' Never a truer word..."

Mangan previously illustrated Ford's Be A Unicorn series (Octopus).