Puffin leaps for Anton Du Beke's children's debut

Puffin has bought the children’s fiction debut and one other title from "Strictly Come Dancing" star Anton Du Beke, with the first scheduled to publish in August 2024. 

Puffin publishers Anthea Townsend and Jane Griffiths bought world rights in two books, including film and TV, from Kerr MacRae at Kerr MacRae LPA and Melissa Chappell at I Will Know Someone. The first book, Code Name Foxtrot, will be illustrated by Elisa Paganelli. World rights in the illustrations were bought from Rosie Barlow at Astound. The book will publish on Thursday 29th August in paperback.

Du Beke’s children’s fiction debut is described as an "unforgettable wartime adventure" for middle-grade readers. Set on the home front during the Second World War, the book stars twins Harry and Rosie and features "heartwarming friendships, great bravery and a dash of dance".

The synopsis reads: "Britain, 1940, the world is at war and 10-year-old twins Harry and Rosie are evacuated from London to live with their Great Uncle. The twins immediately miss home and perhaps most of all for Harry, the tearoom where their mum works, and Harry spends hours watching the professional dancers – secretly dreaming of the day he might do the same.

"Faced with stony silences from their Great Uncle Rupert and endless rainy days in the stormy village of Cotterill Cove, they throw themselves into the local dance show, determined to do their bit for the war effort and maybe even dance at the famous Winter Gardens in Blackpool. But when Harry sees strange flashing lights out on the treacherous mudflats one night, he and Rosie discover their new home is hiding some huge secrets and the enemy is a lot closer than they thought.

"Racing to uncover the truth, Harry and Rosie learn that bravery comes in many forms and even in the worst of times, the show must go on."

Commenting on the acquisition, Du Beke said: “I have always wanted to create a children’s book – one that captures the sense of adventure, mystery and derring-do of my youth but told for the children of today. Now with two young children of my own, it’s been the perfect time to at last get all these wonderful adventures and ideas down on paper. This first story is set against the backdrop of [the Second World War] and charts the escapades of brave twins evacuated from London to stay with their grumpy Great Uncle and how they become embroiled in a world of spies and treachery – with a dash of dance thrown in of course! I want to thank the fabulous team that helped bring this story to life – I hope you enjoy it!”

Townsend and Griffiths added: “In Code Name Foxtrot Anton balances a brilliantly twisty mystery and thrilling adventure, with real heart and emotion. Paired with gorgeous illustrations from Elisa Paganelli, it will appeal to anyone looking for their next classic-in-feel family read. From his bestselling adult novels, to delighting families across the nation with his television appearances and his sold-out dance tours, Anton is a consummate storyteller with a unique ability to connect with his audience. We’re so excited to see him take young readers on this unforgettable adventure and for Code Name Foxtrot to take centre stage with families far and wide this autumn."

The publication will be supported by a high-profile PR and marketing campaign, Puffin says, including author event and media appearances.
Du Beke previously published a series of adult fiction novels, including, most recently, The Paris Affair (Orion).