You are viewing your 1 free article this month. Login to read more articles.
Robinson nets Ashley Mullenger’s My Fishing Life
Robinson has snapped up world all-language rights to fisherman Ashley Mullenger’s My Fishing Life: A Story of the Sea.
Emma Smith acquired from Andrew Lownie at Andrew Lownie Literary Agency. It will publish in hardback, e-book and audio on 2nd May.
The synopsis says: “Ashley Mullenger never planned to become a fisherman. A chance trip – catching mackerel off the Norfolk coast – was the start of an obsession. One that resulted in a transformation from clean-cut office worker to commercial ‘Fisherman of the Year’, and proud working owner of two boats, Fairlass and Saoirse, alongside skipper Nigel.”
“This is a memoir of that journey, a life swept up in tides and elements, strength of mind and body, of old ways and new struggles,” the publisher continued. “It’s about the bravery of crews, early mornings, weather-beaten characters and those that can sink pints as fast as they can haul pots. These coastal communities and age-old livelihoods are built on trust, courage and skill – but they are also fraying against politics, poverty and climate change. The reality of commercial fishing is rarely seen, but Ashley carries us across the waves and around the UK’s waters in vivid detail to show what is really happening at sea to land the fish on our plates.”
Mullenger is a commercial fisherman working off the North Norfolk coast. She is one of the few women working in the industry and was named ’Fisherman of the Year’ in 2022.
Smith said: “The British fishing industry is often heavily romanticised or politicised, without most people truly understanding how this age-old way of life operates in the modern world. That’s why we are so excited to be publishing Ash’s warm, funny, bracing and urgent account that sets the record straight while sweeping us up in adventures on the high seas. Ash is truly a force of nature and I can’t wait for others to be captivated by her wild tales and clear-eyed campaigning just as I was.”
Mullenger added: “As a first-generation fisherman, I’m genuinely excited to share the ups and downs of my journey since ditching ’business casual’ for PVC oilskins. This book isn’t just about the ins and outs of fishing; it’s a tale of personal growth and insight, weaving together moments of joy and heartbreak. My sincere wish is that this story resonates with readers, sparking meaningful discussions about the challenges faced by one of our country’s most essential and threatened communities: the commercial fishermen.”
