PRH acquires Hellmrich’s debut

Penguin Random House Australia (PRH) has acquired world rights to the as-yet unnamed debut by Kelly Hellmrich, via Sarah McKenzie Literary Management.

The book will blend ‘cultural commentary, personal reflection and interviews with Australia’s most influential and impactful female and gender-diverse musicians to paint a picture of the music industry that will illuminate, enrage and inspire,’ said the publisher. ‘Traversing a broad range of topics including creative processes and starting out, sexual harassment and gender inequality, and motherhood, body image and representation, this book is about the artists who have lifted each other up, held the door open for the next person, and built something better than what was there before.’

Hellmrich is a musician of Mineng Noongar descent, and the bass player of the all-girl punk group Camp Cope.

PRH publisher Alison Urquhart said, ‘The instant I started to read this brilliant submission I knew I wanted to work with Kelly. She’s an extraordinary writer and her proposal outlines an important, clever, feminist book giving voices to women, non-binary and trans artists who have rewritten the rules in the Australian music industry. It’s a fierce, timely and candid collection of bold, loud voices.’

Hellmrich said, ‘I’m trying to write the thing I never had but needed. Something very honest, but hopeful, and real, that would’ve made me feel less alone. I wouldn’t be who I am, or here writing this without the women and gender-diverse people in my life. And those who went outside what the industry expected of them. This is for them. I’m grateful Penguin sees the true value in these stories and the importance of preserving the legacy and impact of these incredible artists.’

PRH plans to release the title mid-2026.

Category: Local news Rights and acquisitions