The book
Paddington Here and Now - the first new Paddington novel for thirty years – will be published in hardback in June 2008, to coincide with the famous bear's 50th anniversary. While maintaining the usual blend of mishap and hilarity Paddington has come to represent, life at number 32 Windsor Gardens is considerably enlivened by the arrival, out of the blue, of a mysterious stranger, who not only disturbs the normal peace and quiet but forces Paddington to consider where his 'home' really is. Long-awaited and much-anticipated, this brand new book celebrates the enduring charm of the world-famous bear, and is sure to be a hit with old fans and new readers alike.
Michael Bond comments: "One of the very nice things about chronicling Paddington's adventures is that although the world has changed considerably over the past 30 years, he remains exactly the same; eternally optimistic and ever open to what life has to offer. It makes writing the stories a pleasure."
The deal was concluded by Sue Buswell, Publishing Director for picture books at HarperCollins Children's Books, and Hilary Delamere of The Agency, and secured UK and Commonwealth rights. In a separate deal, HarperCollins US have also acquired rights, giving HarperCollins worldwide rights in the English language.
HarperCollins have been publishing Paddington books since the very beginning, when A Bear Called Paddington was launched in 1958. Well over 30 million Paddington books have now been sold worldwide, and the stories are translated into more than 40 languages.
Sue Buswell comments: "Paddington is, quite simply, a national treasure and being his publisher is both an honour and a great pleasure. The mystery that has remained all these years around his origins is, in some part, explained in this most moving, hilarious and wonderful new novel. It has been well worth the wait."
2008 will be a landmark year for Paddington as he reaches his half-century, and a massive marketing and PR campaign is already under way to ensure it hits the headlines. HarperCollins Children's Books will be releasing a variety of Paddington re-issues and new formats to celebrate the anniversary year.
For more information contact
Catherine Holmes, Press Officer, HarperCollins Children's Books:
Tel: 020 8307 4453
Email: Catherine.holmes@harpercollins.co.uk
