Affirm Press has acquired middle-grade novel Hattie Maxwell and the Library of Lost Words by debut Melbourne author Julianne Negri at auction via Jacinta di Mase Management.

The story follows almost-ten-year-old Hattie Maxwell as she deals with her parents’ separation, her little sister’s imaginary pet eagle, a mystery yarn-bomber and an old house full of secrets and magic.

Negri, who is also a librarian, was selected for the 2018 Emerging Writers’ Mentorship program for an earlier version of the manuscript for Hattie Maxwell and the Library of Lost Words.

Affirm commissioning editor Clair Hume said: ‘Julianne’s novel is funny, full of heart and unashamedly local. I fell head over heels for this manuscript. It will be a stand-out title for us and we can’t wait to share it with booksellers next.’

Affirm Press will also open unsolicited submissions for its kids list, excluding picture book submissions, which will remain restricted to existing authors and agents.