Piatkus triumphs in four-way auction for Shah's 'sumptuous' celebration of books

Piatkus has won a four-way auction for Bibliotherapy: The Healing Power of Reading from bibliotherapist and counsellor Bijal Shah. 

World rights were acquired by commissioning editor Bernadette Marron from Kizzy Thomson at K T Literary Agency. The book will be published on 15th February 2024.

Bibiliotherapy is a "unique and transformational guide to healing" through the "restorative" power of reading. Shah traces the history of how therapeutic reading has evolved and offers first-hand stories from clients who have found "solace in great works of literature when struggling with grief, relationships or illness". The book also contains an A to Z reading list of books for every mood as a "sumptuous" celebration of books. 

Marron said: "I’m thrilled to welcome Bijal to Piatkus. As a lifelong reader and lover of books to know that reading can be a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation is incredibly welcome – and validating. Filled with moving, universal stories from Bijal’s therapy room, this uplifting guide will offer readers the tools needed to engage in reading as a meaningful, therapeutic practice. Bijal shows that hours spent reading are enriching for the mind and soul."

Shah added: "Bibliotherapy is a project that’s very close to my heart, and I am deeply grateful to Bernadette and the team at Piatkus for making this book a reality. When I implemented bibliotherapy in my own therapy sessions it sparked in me a profound transformation, so my wish is that this book will invite readers to embark on a similar journey. I hope that by discovering unique insights into how words heal, and the novel and creative ways in which we can look after our mental wellbeing, readers can establish a sense of joy, connection and self-discovery."