PRH acquires Leighton-Dore YA graphic novel
Penguin Random House Australia (PRH) has acquired “delightful new coming-of-age graphic novel” Willy by Samuel Leighton-Dore, illustrated by Jack Grayson.
The title will also be developed as an animated series by Bluey creator Ludo Studio, together with Mad Ones Films.
The Willy graphic novel was co-created with Leighton-Dore’s husband, producer and designer Bradley Tennant, who grew up in Far North Queensland (FNQ). The story, which is set in the FNQ town of Toee, follows 14-year-old Willy Davis as he navigates “the whirlwind of adolescence” and is “peppered with humour while being anchored in the achingly familiar dysfunction of small-town family life”, said the publisher.
Leighton-Dore is a screenwriter, author and co-director of Sad Man Studio, a boutique animation and creative studio based on the Gold Coast. He is the writer, director and co-producer of animated sketch comedy series Finally, A Show About Men! and has released two books: How To Be a Big Strong Man (2016) and Wow It’s All a Lot (2023).
Grayson is an animator and illustrator based in Melbourne. He has previously worked as an animator on projects for Netflix, Adult Swim and Warner Brothers and is a long-time collaborator with Sad Man Studio.
Leighton-Dore said, “Sad Man Studio is so happy to be partnering with Penguin Random House for the Willy graphic novel. It’s a story that means so much to us, capturing the vibrant inner worlds and big teenage feelings that defined our adolescence. It’s been really beautiful working with Jack Grayson to bring the colourful, fruity world of Far North Queensland to life on the page. We can’t wait for readers to fall in love with Willy, as we have.”
PRH publisher Jess Owen said Willy was “one of the most exciting coming-of-age stories that has come across my desk in a long time” and promised that its “authentic voice and delicate storytelling style delivers a book full of heart and humour”.
PRH plans to release Willy in 2027.
Category: Local news Rights and acquisitions
