UQP acquires 'Little Bones' by Sandy Bigna

We’re delighted to announce that UQP has acquired world rights to the middle-grade verse novel Little Bones by debut author Sandy Bigna, in a two-book deal brokered by Danielle Binks of Jacinta di Mase Management. This gothic magic-realist story follows twelve-year-old girl Bones, who copes with her younger brother’s recent death by collecting animal skeletons. When she inadvertently makes the skeletons of a bird and a snake come to life, she must work out how to reverse the curse – and how to say goodbye to her two new friends. It is a beautiful novel of grief, friendship and accepting loss.

This is the first major acquisition by UQP’s recently appointed Children’s and Young Adult Publisher, Cathy Vallance, who says,

‘Little Bones is exactly the kind of book I want to publish on UQP’s children’s list: an exquisitely written, lyrical story with heart and soul, and a unique point of difference. Sandy is such a talent and I’m beyond thrilled to be bringing this book to life with her.’

Sandy Bigna adds,

‘For many years I’ve loved reading (and reviewing) all the beautiful verse novels published by UQP, and am so excited to work with Cathy to deliver my own verse novel into the hands of young readers. HUGE thank you to my wonderful agent Danielle at JdM for working to find the best home for my book. I’m so grateful for this amazing outcome and can’t wait for everyone to meet Bones.’

UQP will publish Little Bones in 2025.