Penguin Michael Joseph snaps up Martin Clunes' tribute to animals

Meetings with Remarkable Animals by "Doc Martin" star Martin Clunes will be published this autumn by Penguin Michael Joseph (PMJ).  

Publishing director Rowland White acquired world rights from Paul Stevens at Independent Talent. Meetings with Remarkable Animals is published on 7th November 2024.

PMJ said: “Inspired by Martin’s own adoption of a former guide dog the book celebrates the fascinating, moving and sometimes astonishing ways in which animals have enriched our lives. From search and rescue dogs to mine-sniffing rats, and life-saving dolphins to therapy horses and medal-winning cats and pigeons, the stories brought to life in the book will charm, surprise and astonish in equal measure.” 

The publisher added: “Infused with all the warmth and sense of wonder that have characterised Martin’s series of successful television documentaries, Meetings with Remarkable Animals draws on a life-long love of animals in a book that is sure to win the hearts of fellow animal lovers this Christmas.” 

Clunes, who starred in ITV drama "Doc Martin" from 2004 to 2022, said: “I live my life surrounded by animals and they never fail to fascinate me. It’s been fabulous writing this book and hearing about other peoples experiences with theirs. It’s packed with amazing stories about amazing animals and all of my own animals too who are, of course, amazing in their own right.” 

White said: “Martin’s passion for his subject and his joy in discovery shines from every page. It’s been such a pleasure to meet such an extraordinarily rich cast of human and animal characters in a book that’s packed with ‘who knew?’ and ‘fancy that!’ moments throughout.”