AF Steadman signs new three book middle grade series with Simon Schuster

Simon and Schuster Childrens Books has acquired a new three book middle grade fantasy series from British author AF Steadman, The Bookseller reported. The series will launch with Zeno and the Dragon Riders in October 2027. Steadman was named Author of the Year at the 2026 British Book Awards. [1][2]

According to The Bookseller, publishing director Ali Dougal acquired world rights for the three books from agent Sam Copeland at RCW Literary Agency in a major deal. Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Simon and Schuster US, will co-publish the title in the United States. [1]

The Bookseller reported that Zeno and the Dragon Riders will publish simultaneously in hardback, audiobook and e-book formats, alongside planned special editions. The narrative follows Raven Rizzo, a girl from New York, and Zeno Smith, who is the son of Skandar Smith, as they enter a competition known as the Dragon Trials. [1]

Steadman, whose full name is Annabel Steadman, writes under the pen name AF Steadman. [2]