Puffin bags Harlow's 'exceptional' debut in six-figure, three-book deal

Puffin has snapped up Clare Harlow’s middle-grade debut Tidemagic: The Many Faces of Ista Flit in a hotly contested four-way auction. 

Editorial director Natalie Doherty acquired world rights, including dramatisation and merchandise, in a three-book deal from Amber Caravéo at Skylark Literary in a six-figure deal. Tidemagic will be published in February 2024 and will be a key focus for the Puffin rights team at Bologna Children’s Fair. German rights have been pre-empted by HarperCollins. 

"I am so pleased that Puffin will be Clare’s publishing home," said Caravéo. "Natalie and Clare clicked from the outset and I know the Puffin team will do a marvellous job of bringing Clare’s astonishing books to life and to the wider world." 

The book was described as immersive and magical and pitched for fans of Hana Tooke and Vashti Hardy. 

Doherty said: "The whole team at Puffin and I were swept away by Clare’s debut, which is one of the most exceptional I’ve ever come across. Brimming with atmosphere, adventure, menace and magic, and introducing a truly unique new heroine in Ista Flit, it’s a book that deserves to be read for many years to come. Clare is a serious talent and we’re thrilled to be her publisher."

Harlow added: "The idea for this story crept up on me as I was walking by the river one misty afternoon. I knew immediately that I wanted to write it, although it took several years before I felt I could do it justice. Now, to find a home for it with Puffin, and with an editor as wonderful as Natalie, is a dream come true."