I’ve been Anglicized! And though that might sound dangerous, it’s actually a very good thing.
Having your first book published is filled with so many unexpected, cool moments, and this was definitely one of them. Last week, I received an e-mail from my lovely UK publisher, Chicken House, with a spreadsheet that included all the words that will be changed for the UK edition of Circus Mirandus. (How scrumptious is that cover by the way?)
Some of the changes were expected. “Asphalt” became “tarmac,” for example, and Micah will be wearing “pyjamas” instead of “pajamas.” But there were also some neat alterations I didn’t know to anticipate. In England, the characters will be eating Maltesers and drinking orangeade. And Big Jean, the world’s most intelligent elephant, will be using a board rubber instead of a giant eraser.
I think these little differences are so fascinating, and I can’t wait to see what they look like in the finished book.
Speaking of which, I haven’t found many places online to pre-order the English version, but I know it’s available from Amazon UK. And if you happen to be interested in that edition, you won’t have to wait too long! It will be out a day or two after Circus Mirandus is released in the US.
I have always wondered, and maybe you can explain, why are the covers changed for a UK edition? What is wrong with the original cover?
I read Erik’s post on ThisKidReviewsBooks, and your debut sounds wonderful. Congratulations on your first of many MG books.
Thank you so much, Sue!
As for the cover change, I’m no expert, but I think there can be a lot of different reasons. In this case, the UK publisher (Chicken House) is completely separate from the US publisher (Dial). Also, a lot of strategy goes into designing covers based on what the publisher (and booksellers!) think will fly off the shelves. I imagine the taste of the readership probably varies from country to country.
In any case, it’s fun to see the different versions!
Interesting I still like the US version with the big top stripes. Good luck with your book. If you ever need a review for a kid’s book (age 0–13), I’d be happy to help. I wish you the best of sales on both sides of the pond.
Hi Cassie, whats next? I have 2 little girls ( 9 & 11), who have proclaimed this the best book ever….. So we’re waiting patiently here in Australia for your next magical work.
Vanessa
Hi, Vanessa! I’m so glad your girls enjoyed Circus Mirandus! You can tell them that I’m currently revising my next book, and hopefully I will be able to share more details about it soon. 🙂
My 9 year old daughter just finished Circus Mirandus and her need for a sequel led me here. Any updates on the next book? She’s made me promise to find her an answer! Can’t wait to read this one for myself!
Hi, Janelle!
Sorry it’s taken me so long to spot this comment. A sequel to Circus Mirandus is something I’m still thinking about and working toward. 🙂