Penguin Michael Joseph scoops social media star Joe Sugg’s ode to nature

Penguin Michael Joseph has scooped social media star Joe Sugg’s “part memoir, part practical guide” Grow. 

Fenella Bates, publisher at PMJ, bought exclusive UK, British Commonwealth, Europe and Canada rights plus non-exclusive rights throughout the rest of the world, except the US, from Matilda Forbes Watson at WME Agency. It will be published on 15th September 2022.

The publisher says that having grown up during the rise of the digital age and as one of the UK’s biggest TV and online stars – he has more than 26 million followers across all social media channels - Sugg knows better than anyone how it feels to be overwhelmed by the online world and its endless stream of content. 

His book’s synopsis explains: “After experiencing anxiety and burnout, Joe found that connecting back to nature helped ease those feelings and came up with his own creative and practical ways of building it into his everyday life. His approach is accessible to everyone, no matter where in the world you live, from the city to the seaside.

“Grow will inspire us to reconnect with the natural world so that we can balance our time online with the great outdoors, and become healthier, happier and calmer as a result. Alongside his advice and tips are Joe’s own hand-drawn illustrations and personal stories of his journey to happiness.”

Sugg said: "I grew up online and know better than anyone how brilliant the connections and friendships you can build can be. But I also know that sometimes being in front of a screen all day, every day can lead to feelings of overwhelm and burnout. Embedding nature into everyday life has helped me find much needed balance so I wanted to share a bit of my journey alongside the tools I used so you can do the same."

Prior to publication there will be signed copies available for pre-order from Waterstones and W H Smith. 

Bates said: “Joe Sugg is one of the UK’s original online superstars, and whilst he will always love spending time online, over the years he has also learned how vital it is for all of us to get outside, or bring the outside in; to reconnect with nature and restore balance in our busy lives. This book is the perfect antidote to too much screen time.”