Studio Press acquires Gehl's 'poignant' picture book about loss

Studio Press, an imprint of Bonnier Books UK, has acquired The Window by Laura Gehl, a "poignant" picture book exploring death, grief and coming to terms with loss, illustrated by Udayana Lugo.

The synopsis reads: "Whenever Daria visits her grandpa in hospital, they look out of the window together. Whilst the other windows look out on dull grey buildings, Daria and her grandpa can see crashing waves, flying kites and happy families. The Window reveals how, even in the darkest places, hope can be found."

Frankie Jones, senior commissioning editor, acquired world rights from Erzsi Deak at Hen&ink Literary Studio and Rosie Barlow from Astound.

Jones said: "The Window is a touching and poignant story about a young child's relationship with a beloved grandparent. I was drawn to Laura's beautifully written manuscript as it explores the intricacies of a long-term illness as seen from a child's eyes. We see Daria visit her grandfather through the seasons, and Udayana's tender illustrations show the love between the pair. The twist at the end packs a powerful punch. I am sure that this book will bring comfort to many families for many years to come."

Gehl, author of One Big Pair of Underwear (Beach Lane Books), commented: "I wrote this book after my kids lost one grandparent to a long, difficult illness, and then revised it after they lost another. I hope The Window will help children with a terminally ill family member to feel less alone, as well as helping children going through the grieving process to remember that the bond with their loved one will not disappear after death."

Lugo added: "The Window feels incredibly personal, even if I didn't write it. I often find myself teary eyed remembering my grandad, who faded away like Daria's in the book. I also tried to make the characters similar to my own family, so the connection is even stronger for me."