The last six weeks have been more hectic than any I can remember and the lack of posts is due to several authors delivering their contracted MSS just before Christmas. (So they have been able to kick back and I have been reading! My clients are really delivering some important, wonderful books.) In addition I have taken on the representation of Jules Howard, a brilliant young naturalist who - as 'the wildlife man' - has carved out a niche introducing primary school children to nature. Bloomsbury have bought his first book SEX ON EARTH and I have teamed him up with Arlington Management to kick-start what will be a terrific TV career.
After a long negotiation Penny Junor is now signed up to Hodder to write the biogaphy of Pince Harry which will be published for his thirtieth birthday in 2014. Everyone loves Harry, who has been able to grow up without the pressure of the 'top job' looming, and Penny who has unrivalled access and a long history of writing 'royal' bestsellers will write a huge bestseller I know.
I DO represent some fiction - but very selectively - and I have very particular tastes whereas in non-fiction my interests are broad. I would love a new original thriller writer on my list.
Currently (apart from my own clients) I have just read Hilary Mantel's FLUDD which is simply brilliant, Kathleen Jamie's new collection THE OVERHAUL ( her SIGHTLINES was my favourite book of last year), Tim Birkhead's BIRD SENSE, and everything by Lee Child. I think it is important that people looking for an agent should know what an agent chooses to read out of office hours.
