Kel Menton signed for three more books from Little Island!

Little Island Books announce that they have signed multi-book deals for the first time in the company’s history, agreeing three-book contracts with two Cork-based Irish authors: Kel Menton and Jen Wallace.

Menton, a youth theatre professional whose debut A Fix of Light was published by Little Island in February 2025 to rave reviews on both sides of the Altantic, has signed on for three more novels for young readers: a mix of YA and middle-grade titles with an emphasis on speculative fiction and magic realism. World rights in all languages were acquired by publisher Matthew Parkinson-Bennett from agent Laura Bennett at the Liverpool Literary Agency.

Little Island’s Matthew Parkinson-Bennett says “Little Island has always been about finding and nurturing the best Irish talent for young readers everywhere. Jen and Kel are really exciting talents and we’re delighted to be able to invest in their creativity in the coming years. As a Dubliner, I swear it’s a coincidence that they’re both from Cork!”

Kel Menton adds “Who said lightning doesn't strike the same place twice? They'd better redo their numbers. I'm equal parts humbled and excited to be able to work with Little Island on three (3!!!) books, and I can't wait to share the worlds and characters I've been brewing!”

We are absolutely thrilled at Kel’s success, and know that they’ll have an awesome time writing further books with Little Island!

About Kel Menton

Kel is a non-binary, neurodivergent writer from Cork in Ireland. Kel works in youth theatre as a facilitator and playwright mentor. They hold a master's in medieval English literature from University College Cork. A Fix of Light, their debut, published by Little Island in 2025, was described as “an all-around masterpiece” in a Booklist starred review.