S&S Children's bags Cham's 'genius' middle-grade series

Simon & Schuster Children’s Books has snapped up Oliver and The Great Big Universe, the debut middle-grade series by Jorge Cham.

Ali Dougal, children’s publishing director, bought UK and Commonwealth rights for three books in the "laugh-out-loud funny, highly illustrated fiction and non-fiction mash up" from Caspian Dennis at Abner Stein at auction on behalf of Seth Fishman at the Gernert Company.

The first book in the series will publish in paperback in spring 2023, simultaneously with US publisher Abrams, and be backed by a significant marketing and PR campaign.

"Inspired by his son’s ambition to be an astrophysicist when he grows up, Cham’s fresh, funny series stars science-obsessed 11-year-old Oliver who, through a series of comics, explains the cosmos (from the Big Bang theory to supernovas) to readers in his own words, while navigating the highs and lows of family, friendship and everyday school life," the synopsis explains.

"Oliver and The Great Big Universe is genius," Dougal said. "It has all the appeal of Wimpy Kid, layered with mindblowing science explained by a child, for children. The series is a perfect fit for our child-centric list and Jorge is a deeply impressive and exciting new talent.”

Cham is an Emmy-nominated author, illustrator, cartoonist and "science guru". He is the co-creator, executive producer and creative director  of “Elinor Wonders Why", one of the highest-rated animated shows on PBS Kids, and has co-authored two popular science books for adults. Cham is also the co-host and co-creator of “Daniel and Jorge Explain the Universe", a podcast and radio show. 

"I'm thrilled to be a part of S&S' wonderful list and family and look forward to introducing Oliver to UK readers," he said.