Wildfire Books signs Coyne’s ‘laugh-out-loud’ debut novel

Wildfire Books has acquired Frank and Red, the debut novel by Matt Coyne, parenting blogger and the author of Dummy and Man vs Toddler (Wildfire).

Publishing director Alex Clarke acquired world rights from Euan Thorneycroft at A M Heath, with publication scheduled for 1st February 2024.

Frank and Red is described as “the heart-warming story of Red, a six-year-old boy, who is struggling with the separation of his mum and dad, moving house, starting a new school and a school bully. But Red is smart, curious, and well, likes talking to everyone… all of the time."

The synopsis adds: “Meanwhile, Red’s new neighbour is Frank, a grumpy agoraphobic old man – whose only company is the ‘ghost’ of his recently departed wife. Estranged from his adult son and his usual circle of friends, he has lost interest in the world beyond his gate. The moment Red’s blonde mop appears over the top of the fence that divides their two gardens, the unlikeliest of friendships is born. And it is a friendship that will change both of their lives… forever.”

Clarke said: “I had every faith that Matt would take to writing fiction as a grizzly bear takes to honey – but he’s wildly exceeded my greatest expectations. Frank and Red is a ludicrously good novel. It’s life affirming, it’s laugh-out-loud funny, and most of all it shows the joy of always looking for the best in the folk around you. It also has a ridiculously unexpected twist in the tale. Matt is a natural-born novelist."

Coyne said: “I am beyond thrilled to be working with Wildfire on my first foray into fiction and will be forever grateful for the belief that Alex, and the whole team at Wildfire, have always shown in my writing. I cannot wait for the world to meet Frank and Red and I hope that readers come to love them as much as I do.”