Wombat acquires Page’s interactive novel

Wombat Books has acquired world rights to Gabriella Page’s The Nardi Puzzle, an interactive middle-grade story that allows readers to solve puzzles alongside the characters.

The novel follows Sebastian Walker’s fortunes following the breakup of his family. He barely hears from his father, and his older brothers have been posting his most embarrassing moments online.

“Sebastian’s only escape is through the Nardi Corp. games,” said the publisher, “which were designed by legendary game-maker Elisabetta Nardi.” Invited to the launch of Nardi’s newest game, Sebastian is “thrust into a real-life escape game with the other twelve guests, and there’s a life-changing prize at stake.”

Page is a West Australian singer and children’s author based in Italy. She has worked as an opera chorister, English teacher and translator. She took part in the 2022 ASA/CA Award Mentorship program.

Page said, “The Nardi Puzzle is a fast-paced escape room novel that gives budding supersleuths and puzzlers the chance to put their skills to the test. It’s also the story of a middle child trying to make sense of the world – and his place in it – following his parents’ separation.”

“She has a penchant for puzzles and mystery, and she blends humour and darkness in her novels,” said the publisher. “When Gabriella isn’t singing or writing, you can find her trawling the gelato shops around Cagliari, hoarding books or applying sunscreen.”

The Nardi Puzzle has an estimated release date of August 2026.

Category: Local news News Rights and acquisitions