Puffin does three-book deal with Sharna Jackson

Puffin has made a three-book deal with Sharna Jackson, including The Good Turn, the first book in a middle-grade adventure series with themes of activism and kindness. 

The synopsis reads: "Josephine Williams is a future-focused, internet-loving 11-year-old who is desperate to explore the world beyond her cul-de-sac – and her browser. When she learns about Josephine Holloway – a woman who started the first Girl Scout Troop for Black girls in America – she's certain she must start her own. Enlisting her friends Margot Anderson and Wesley Evans, the trio begin their quest for their camping badge. Drawn to an abandoned factory nearby, they stumble across something strange. A square, ancient television and two tatty armchairs. Beside it, a wooden sideboard with an old photograph of a young, happy couple. What is this? Who, or what, lives here – and why?"

Kelly Hurst, editorial director, bought world rights in three books in a hotly contested multi-publisher auction from Hellie Ogden at Janklow & Nesbit UK. The Good Turn will be published in May 2022, with a second title in the series to follow in spring 2023. 

Hurst said: "Sharna has burst onto the children’s book scene with incredible vigour and the impact her books have made on readers, librarians, teachers and retailers alike in such a short time is amazing. I’m thrilled to welcome her funny, heartfelt, mystery adventures to the Puffin list and excited to introduce the remarkable Josie and her friends to the world outside Luton!”

Jackson commented: "I am committed to creating brave and bold Black and brown characters who are smart, funny and basically get things done – Josephine's story is no exception. I am delighted to be bringing The Good Turn – and its connected tales – to Puffin's list, and I am very much looking forward to working with their wonderful team."

Jackson is the author of the Mic Drop series (Knights Of) and the High Rise Mystery series (Knights Of).