Ithaka Press, an imprint of Bonnier Books UK, is set to publish The Boy with the Knapsack: An Extraordinary Life, from the Kindertransport to the House of Lords by Lord Alf Dubs.
Sarah Braybrooke, publishing director at Ithaka Press, acquired World Language rights from Emma Shercliff at Laxfield Literary.
The Boy with the Knapsack tells the story of Alf Dubs’ life, from arriving in Britain on the Kindertransport through seven decades of British history – including his stints in government and opposition at key moments in the 80s and 90s – to today, where he remains an outspoken advocate for human rights and one of the most notable figures in the current House of Lords, respected by colleagues from across the political spectrum.
Alf Dubs came to the UK at the age of six, fleeing Nazi persecution in Czechoslovakia, and arriving at Liverpool Street station in June 1939. MP for Battersea South and then Battersea from 1979-1987, Alf was also Director of the Refugee Council for seven years before becoming a Labour life peer in 1995. He served as Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Northern Ireland from 1997-1999, at the time of the Good Friday Agreement.
Lord Alf Dubs said: ‘When I arrived in the UK aged six on a Kindertransport, I could never have imagined the journey my life would take me on. Britain has given me the most incredible opportunities for which I shall always be grateful. I am looking forward to sharing my memories with readers.’
Ithaka Press Publishing Director Sarah Braybrooke said: ‘Alf Dubs is one of the UK’s most notable public figures. His frank criticism of those in power and tireless campaigning for the rights of the vulnerable are a regular reminder of the values of decency and respect that are so important – and yet so rare – in public life. He has witnessed some of the most significant moments of 20th-century history, and he brings that awareness to bear in his astute commentary on today’s politics. Alf is a modest person, and yet his life story has already inspired so many. It’s a privilege to help him tell it in full for the first time.’
The Boy with the Knapsack: An Extraordinary Life, from the Kindertransport to the House of Lordsby Lord Alf Dubs will be published in hardback, eBook and audiobook on 27th August.
