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Hodder & Stoughton has won an eight-way auction for broadcaster Adele Roberts’ memoir, Personal Best, documenting her experience of bowel cancer and Guinness World Record marathon achievements.
Lauren Whelan, publisher at Catalyst, bought world rights from Adam Strange while he was at Gleam, before he joined KAA. The deal followed an auction between eight publishers and the book is scheduled for publication on 18th April 2024, in hardback, audiobook and e-book.
The blurb reads: “Award-winning BBC broadcaster, TV personality and DJ, Adele Roberts, was diagnosed with bowel cancer on 1st October 2021. In the months that followed, with her partner Kate Holderness alongside her, she fought very publicly through the challenges of chemotherapy and life with a stoma, which she named ’Audrey’.
“Adele’s legions of fans avidly followed this remarkable journey, struck by her determination, her stoicism, and above all the resolute positivity that she and Kate demonstrated despite the many hurdles they faced along the way. Eighteen months on she ran across the finish line of the London Marathon, setting a new Guinness World Record as the fastest female with an ileostomy.”
Fusing memoir and self-help, Personal Best “is the story of those months, but it is also an inspirational compass navigating our biggest challenges and setbacks, illuminating a path that anyone can follow to get back on track, go further than they thought and achieve their personal best in the marathon of life,” Catalyst said.
Whelan said: “When Personal Best hit my inbox, I was deeply struck by Adele’s fearless, rebellious energy, even in the face of something so unexpected and life-changing. She and Kate are magnetic, beautiful souls and together with Audrey, Adele’s stoma, and these words, they will continue to raise awareness of bowel cancer and offer a springboard for resolute positivity, showing us that each new day is a fresh opportunity for growth.
“This book is an ode to the power of the human spirit and I am both grateful and honoured to be publishing it.”
Roberts commented: “No matter what your struggle is, no matter how big or small your challenges seem, you can do it. Never fear failure, fear not trying. You don’t have to complete a marathon to move forward in your life.
“Some days, just getting out of bed and facing the world is enough. I hope this book ignites that little spark of greatness within and inspires you to break your own personal records – regardless of how far away the finish line seems.”
She added: “Thank you to Catalyst for giving Kate and I the opportunity to share Personal Best with readers, it’s written right from the heart.”
Strange said: “Adele and Kate’s refusal to be cowed by the most challenging of circumstances is exceptional, and I’m delighted that so many editors recognised how valuable their extraordinarily positive outlook will be to readers.”