Transworld and Puffin do three-book deal with Hammond

Transworld and Puffin have acquired three books from Alison Hammond, including the "This Morning" presenter's memoir, a novel and a non-fiction title for readers aged eight to 12. 

Transworld publishing director Frankie Gray acquired world rights to Hammond's memoir You’ve Got To Laugh from Becca Barr at Becca Barr Management in a "hotly contested" multiway auction. It will be published in October 2021, with a novel to follow in 2023. 

The memoir will give never-before-seen insights into Hammond's life and will inspire readers to grab life with both hands and make the most of every single moment, said the publisher. 

Gray said: "Alison loves to laugh. And the nation laughs with her. It’s impossible to watch her on screen and not to feel buoyed up by her infectious joy and energy – and what a joy it will be to publish You’ve Got To Laugh! For fans desperate to know more about the woman behind the laugh, this will provide a glorious, effervescent look at the moments that made Alison who she is today.

"From her time as an entertainment rep in Tunisia to her 'Big Brother' debut, from her incredible mum’s influence to her top five klutzy moments, this is Alison Hammond as you’ve never seen her before. It’s a treat from start to finish."

Puffin will publish Hammond's first children's book, Black in Time: Awesome Black Britons from Yesterday to Today, in spring 2022. Last autumn, ITV broadcast Hammond's documentary, "Back To School" and Black in Time will see the author once again journey through British history in her own "unique and accessible" style, exploring the lives of key Black figures to showcase their incredible achievements and highlight the true diversity of our past – showing that Black history is British history. 

Puffin editorial director Jane Griffiths acquired world rights from Barr. She commented: "I’ve been blown away by Alison’s passion for history and her desire to share the stories of overlooked figures who have played important roles in our collective past. Alison’s wonderfully engaging style brings history to life in a way that only she can and I couldn’t be more excited to be working with her on this brilliant and inspirational book."

Hammond added: "I'm beyond ecstatic to not only have been given the opportunity in this lifetime to be a mother, lover, presenter, actor, dancer and singer but now I am soon to be a published author! My life is made! All I need now is a husband... Transworld and Puffin have made my dreams come true. I'm thoroughly enjoying the process and can't wait for the world to finally read about what makes The Hammond tick!"