We are incredibly pleased to finally announce Jen Carney‘s outstanding three-book deal with Puffin for a fully illustrated, rib-tickling new Middle Grade series. The first in the series, and Jen’s debut, will be The Accidental Diary of B.U.G, to be released in April 2021.
This fabulous series was acquired following a heated auction by Commissioning Editor Emma Jones, who purchased the rights from Chloe Seager in a six-figure deal. The story follows Billie Upton Green – she has three rather unfortunate initials, two lovely mums, and soon finds herself at the centre of one very large mistake. This fresh, funny and colourful read will be published next spring, followed by its sequel in August 2021.
This Accidental Diary belongs to Billie Upton Green, who has only one rule: never call her by her initials – who wants to be nicknamed BUG? When a new girl arrives at Billie’s school, she decides to make friends, teach the new girl the Biscuit Laws, and show her that two women can get married – after all, Billie’s mums’ wedding is the event of the year. But despite her best intentions nothing quite goes to plan, and Billie ends up at the centre of a very embarrassing case of mistaken identity…
Emma Jones elaborated: “Billie’s diary may be accidental, but from the very first page it’s absolutely unforgettable. Billie is sparky, relatable and just the right amount of rude – I can’t wait to introduce her to readers who I know are going to fall for her just as our whole team did. It was no surprise to us that the creator of this irresistible book was just as wonderful as her writing and illustrations: Jen is a rare talent and I am delighted to be working with her to bring this brilliant world to life.”
Jen enthused: “I am over the moon that my books have found such an amazing home with Puffin – a team of diverse professionals whose enthusiasm bowled me over from the get-go. I’m so excited for children to dive into Billie’s life, I might wee.”
Chloe commented: “I knew from the first page that B.U.G. was a truly special book full of warmth, inclusivity and belly laughs, and that Jen was a shining star. It was a joy to see my excitement shared by publishers and I’m delighted Jen has found the perfect home with Emma and Puffin. I can’t wait for kids to meet the hilarious Billie Upton Green.”
Jen Carney is an over-imaginative, slightly rude ten-year-old girl stuck in a forty-year-old’s body. She writes contemporary laugh-out-loud middle grade fiction that celebrates diversity and modern families. Although packed with silly nonsense and daft drawings, her books tell important stories with family and friendships at their heart. Jen lives in Lancashire with her wife, three children and an array of animals. When not reading, writing or drawing, Jen enjoys eating peanut butter, dragging her family out for forced enjoyment of fresh air, and slinking off to the bathroom for a minute’s peace. Plop! No Big Deal is her debut novel.
