Scholastic UK signs three new Tom Gates books from Liz Pichon

Scholastic UK has signed three new Tom Gates books from Liz Pichon, taking her publishing to 2027. 

Fiction publisher Lauren Fortune acquired world rights from Caroline Walsh at David Higham Associates. 

Pichon said: “I love making Tom Gates books and I’m excited to be introducing more children to the joys of doodling and the caramel wafer trick – which are life skills everyone needs.” 

In May 2024, Scholastic will publish Tom Gates: Book of Everything “crammed with stories, activities and fun stuff to do for hours of entertainment”. The campaign will include national PR, bookshop engagement and a creative multi-faceted digital campaign to reach parents and kids directly. 

In September 2024, the paperback edition of Tom Gates: Five Star Stories will be published with an exclusive story written by the winner of the Funny Story competition launched with First News for the hardback edition and illustrated by Pichon herself. 

Meanwhile in October 2024, the first new novel, Tom Gates is Ha Ha Hilarious, will be launched with “major consumer marketing, PR and high-profile events”.  

Fortune said: “Tom Gates is one of the most loved characters in children’s books and we are thrilled to share news about upcoming publishing with the wonderfully talented and creative Liz Pichon. The irresistible combination of hilarious storytelling, iconic doodle-style illustration, innovative design and relatable characters make the Tom Gates books unique and engaging to an exceptionally wide stretch of children from six to 12+. We are delighted to be bringing new and existing readers more fabulous Tom Gates books.”