Walker signs Sir Chris Hoy to inspire young readers

Sir Chris Hoy is publishing a new non-fiction book for children with Walker Books called Be Amazing! to show young readers nothing is impossible.

The former Olympic cyclist, who Team GB counts as one of its most successful athletes of all time, with six gold medals to his name, will use the book to share his story and outline “practical strategies” that will help its young readers to “be the best you can be” (the book’s subtitle).

Commissioning editor Daisy Jellicoe acquired world rights to the one book from Josephine Hayes at The Blair Partnership, calling it "honest and empowering" and "essential reading for children". The book will publish in June 2020, in time for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, where Hoy will be part of the cycling commentary team.
 
Hoy, who already publishes a fiction series for young children, Flying Fergus, with Piccadilly Press, commented: “When I was growing up, I thought Olympic Champions were born different to the rest of us. I dreamed of becoming one, but I never believed it would come true. I just wanted to be the best I could be and have fun riding my bike while I was at it! I hope Be Amazing! will inspire children to discover their dreams and empower them to reach their full potential by showing them that nothing is impossible.”
 
Jellicoe said: “Sir Chris Hoy’s story shows that success and fulfilment grow from inspiration, dedication and resilience. With parents looking for ways to help their children gain in confidence and self-esteem, this book will help young people feel their best every day. Sir Chris is the perfect role-model and Be Amazing! is honest and empowering – essential reading for children.”

Hoy has sold 135,838 books to date for £889k, including his Flying Fergus series (Piccadilly Press) and his autobiography (HarperCollins).