- Usborne news
David Owen’s ‘slice of monstrous, middle-grade perfection’ goes to Usborne
Usborne has acquired Graveyard Gladiators, a middle-grade adventure for readers aged eight and up, by David Owen, bestselling author of the Alex Neptune series.
Associate editorial director Sarah Stewart acquired world rights from Ella Kahn at Apple Tree Literary to the “fast-paced, high stakes, monster-packed adventure".
The story, inspired by Owen’s passion for gaming and World Wrestling Entertainment, and his experience as a freelance games journalist, follows Jude as he battles the undead at the Graveyard Games to save his dad from being eaten as their star prize. Publication is scheduled for October 2026, including trading-card-style illustrations of the monster competitors, illustrated by Shane Houston.
Stewart said: “I loved this concept the minute I first heard of it and I’m thrilled to be getting it into kids’ hands as I know they’re going to be as obsessed as I am. It’s silly, funny, gross, action-packed and it features a giant were-guinea-pig called Mr Fluffy-Bottom; it’s a slice of monstrous perfection.”
Owen added: "I’m thrilled to be continuing to work with Usborne on publishing this brand-new story. Graveyard Gladiators is the most fun I’ve ever had writing a book and I hope readers will enjoy it as much as me."
Owen’s agent, Ella Kahn, added: “Working with Usborne and David on his Alex Neptune series has been a dream and we’re so excited to be continuing that partnership with the phenomenal Graveyard Gladiators. It’s been a real passion project for us all and we can’t wait to share it with readers."
Graveyard Gladiators is releasing in October 2026.
