Simon & Schuster Children’s Books snaps up Baker's 'warm-hearted' middle-grade series

Simon & Schuster Children’s Books has snapped up a "warm-hearted" middle-grade series by Nicola Baker, who stars in the Channel 4 show "Our Farm in the Dales".

Publishing director Ali Dougal acquired world rights in the Whisteldown Farm Adventures series, comprising four books, from Helen Boyle at Pickled Ink.

According to the publisher, the series is inspired by Baker’s experiences on a farm in the Durham Hills. The first book in the series, Finding Hope, will publish in February 2024, with a second following in the autumn and two further titles in 2025.

The synopsis says: "Perfect for young animal lovers and fans of Jacqueline Wilson this beautifully observed and gently seasonal series follows 10-year-old fish out of water Ava as she’s forced to swap city life for mud, wellies and animals on Whistledown Farm."

The series will be launched on 29th February 2024 in a high-spec hardback format with jacket art and interiors by illustrator Rachael Dean, backed by a major PR campaign.

Dougal said: "It has been a complete joy working on Finding Hope with Nicola, who is a born storyteller. I could listen to her tales of farm life forever and I know that young readers are going to be swept away by the adventures – and of course the animals – they’ll encounter on Whistledown Farm, all brought to life with Rachael Dean’s exquisite illustrations."

Baker added: "It’s been a lifelong dream of mine to see a book I’ve written on the shelf of a bookshop and in the hands of readers, and for my debut series to be set in a world I love makes it even more special. Being able to bring life in the countryside to a whole new audience is really exciting.

"My fantastic agent Helen has supported me all the way and I’ve loved working with the brilliant team at Simon & Schuster. To have Rachael Dean illustrate Finding Hope is the icing on the cake!"