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Zephyr scoops 18-book series from Olympian Funnell
Zephyr has scooped Pippa’s Pony Tales, a children’s book series from three-time Olympic medallist in equestrian, Pippa Funnell.
Publisher Fiona Kennedy acquired world rights from Jonathan Marks at M T C UK Ltd. The first three books will be published in May 2023 and launched at the Badminton Horse Trials, with the rest of the 18 books following one a month from August 2023.
Marks commented: “Pippa’s Pony Tales is an incredibly strong property with an international reach that has the rare value of a genuinely timeless storyline and characters. We are delighted to be reunited as a team with Fiona at Zephyr and can see publishing as the foundation for a far wider strategy over the coming years that sees this extend into different platforms and product.”
The synopsis reads: “The only thing missing from the life of Tilly Redbrow’s adoptive family is a pony of her own. But on the day Tilly helps rescue a terrified horse, her dreams begin to come true. She quickly forms a special bond with Magic Spirit, starting a partnership with a horse that only she can ride to stardom.”
“It is fantastic news that Zephyr has taken on my children’s series and I am so pleased to be working closely with Fiona Kennedy again,” said Funnell. “I thought there was no way with my crazy schedule that I would have the time to write, but on long rides building up my horses’ fitness, my stories about Tilly Redbrow and her love affair with horses were created. My passion has always been with horses. I have learned so much from working alongside these incredible animals.”
Kennedy added: “I am delighted to be reunited with Pippa to bring new, updated editions of her irresistible, uplifting, wish-fulfilment stories about believing you can achieve your dreams no matter what. Pippa’s stories are packed with expert advice on everything you ever wanted to know about horses as well as exploring many important themes like the therapeutic effect horses can have for neurodivergent and disabled individuals. With lots of bonus material, a fabulous PR campaign, key marketing partnerships and, of course, Pippa herself, we’re excited for our May launch.”
