Perentie Press acquires first YA graphic novel

Monday, 16 June 2025   Books+Publishing @booksandpublishing

Perentie Press has acquired world rights to The Curator, a YA graphic novel by author/illustrator Wendy Tyrer, the first YA graphic novel acquisition for the new press.

The novel asks, ‘what would you give up to become famous?’ said the publisher. ‘Artists are disappearing in Melbourne, but struggling art student Mimi isn’t too concerned – she’s not a “real artist” yet. When a peculiar curator and an equally strange cat turn up in the gallery she works in, Mimi is pulled into a mystery that will force her to make a life-changing choice.’

Tyrer is a designer, illustrator and animator who works in bayside Melbourne.

Publisher Bethany Loveridge said, ‘As soon as we saw the opening pages of this gripping adventure, we knew it was something special.’

Of her book, Tyrer said, ‘With The Curator, I wanted to capture that magical, slightly surreal feeling I get when wandering through galleries and museums. I also wanted to write something with puzzles, secrets, and unexpected turns – where art isn’t just beautiful, but powerful.’

The Curator is planned for release in mid-2026.

Category: Local news Rights and acquisitions