Puffin has announced the acquisition of Lil’ Muffin Drops the Mic, a new, laugh-out-loud middle-grade adventure from comedian Romesh Ranganathan with illustrations from James Lancett. Editorial Director, Carmen McCullough bought world rights in a two-book deal from Flo Howard at Off the Kerb. The first book will publish in July 2023.
Lil’ Muffin Drops the Mic is inspired by Romesh’s well-known love of hip-hop, rap music and his less well-known love of baking! His debut children’s book introduces a whole host of relatable characters, heartfelt moments and hilariously embarrassing escapades that show everyone (just like Romesh) can - with a little help from their friends – find something they’re good at.
Romesh Ranganathan is best known as a comedian, actor, writer, and bestselling author. Being a former maths teacher he is well versed in the hilarity, mischief, trials and tribulations of school aged children, having three of his own also, and has brought to life a diverse and engaging cast of characters in a comical story that will delight readers of all ages, especially fans of David Baddiel, Humza Arshad and Jeff Kinney.
Ever since James's dad left, he can't seem to stop worrying about everything. Luckily his favourite hobby, baking, is a fun (and delicious!) distraction. But no matter how many amazing brownies James makes, he still feels like there's a missing ingredient in his life.
When James hears someone rapping in the playground one breaktime, he's completely hooked and starts writing his own raps featuring all of his favourite things – music, his giant pet rabbit Graham and of course – cake!
Then he discovers that grime artist Brukka is on the hunt for new talent and James wonders if this is his chance to share his muffins, his music, and maybe even his feelings with the whole school. If he can just find the confidence...
Romesh Ranganathan commented, “I have wanted to write a children's book for ages but only if it combined baking and rapping – thankfully I have managed to make that dream come true. I came up with the idea on holiday and annoyed my family talking about it non-stop! It's been fantastic working with Puffin and James to create Lil’ Muffin Drops The Mic. I'm excited for it to create a generation of baking rappers or baking Karate experts or dancing bakers. This book is about being whatever and whoever you want!”
Carmen McCullough, Editorial Director, added, “I have admired Romesh’s incredible comedy writing for so many years and it feels only natural that he should turn his hand to writing for children, bringing his fantastically funny and relatable writing to a younger audience. I have been blown away by Romesh’s passion for this story and I know that children everywhere will love being part of James’s journey to becoming a rap superstar! Expect laugh-out-loud moments a-plenty as well as a powerful and heartfelt message about being true to yourself.”
Lil’ Muffin Drops the Mic will publish in Hardback on 20th July 2023 under the Puffin imprint.
Picture: Alex Lake
