Scholastic Acquires Fantasy Novel For Children By Bestselling Author David Baldacci

Scholastic has acquired North American rights to The Finisher , a new fantasy novel for children by international bestselling author David Baldacci. Scheduled for release on March 4, 2014 and aimed at readers ages 9-13, The Finisher follows the adventures of a determined young heroine named Vega Jane who lives in an ordinary world with extraordinary secrets. The deal was negotiated by Aaron Priest from The Aaron M. Priest Literary Agency and Ellie Berger, President, Scholastic Trade. Scholastic recently published Baldacci’s Day of Doom, the concluding book in the bestselling The 39 Clues: Cahills vs. Vespers multi-platform series.

“It was my long-held dream to write this story and I am thrilled to be working with a world-class publisher like Scholastic to bring it to readers everywhere,” said author David Baldacci.

“David Baldacci has captivated millions of readers worldwide with his page-turning thrillers. His new venture into the fantasy genre is equally mesmerizing, and every bit as exciting—all trademarks of this talented writer,” said Ellie Berger, President, Scholastic Trade. “We are delighted to be working with David again, and look forward to introducing the young fans of fantasy and adventure to the imaginative world of Vega Jane.”

“It was the best kind of surprise to discover that an author beloved for writing so brilliantly about our world has a secret love and talent for creating his own magic world,” said Rachel Griffiths, Executive Editor, Scholastic Press, who will edit The Finisher. “I’m excited that his millions of fans will have the pleasure of discovering that David’s talent has even more facets than any of us knew.”