ZunTold has announced that they have secured World Rights on a new YA novel written by teens for teens in an exploration of complex mental health challenges behind the scenes of their lives at school.
Facilitated by The Reading Agency and Knowsley Council, ZunTold novel, Gate @ Eight, authored by Vicky Martin and a group of year 7, 8 and 9 students from Kirkby High School, shares the story of two best friends who face their own mental health challenges alongside each other.
Two best friends. Two hidden battles. Autumn hasn’t even had time to grieve her dad’s death, and now her mum has moved her new boyfriend – the “idiot from the petrol station” – into their home. As her old life disappears, a heavy darkness starts to set in. Meanwhile, Austin is doing everything he can to keep it together as his home life unravels. Trapped by his dad’s destructive habits, his anxiety is quickly spiralling out of control. They used to tell each other everything. Now, they’re both fighting silent battles right next to each other. When the weight becomes too much to carry alone, help arrives from the most unexpected places. But saving themselves means making the hardest choice of all: letting someone in.
Karen Napier MBE, CEO, The Reading Agency said: “The Reading Agency knows that reading can change lives, helping us understand ourselves, connect with others and feel less alone. We’re proud to have worked with ZunTold on the creation of Gate @ Eight along with Vicky Martin and students from Kirkby High School, putting young people’s voices at the heart of a story for their peers. By exploring friendship, grief and mental health, the book creates opportunities for readers to recognise their own experiences and opens up conversations about reaching out for support.”
Cllr Christine Bannon, Cllr Christine Bannon, Knowsley Council Cabinet Member for Health, said “What an amazing achievement for our pupils at Kirkby High School who took part in this exciting project and for sharing their views and experiences. What has been created will resonate with so many others and importantly, help to support youth mental health issues.”
Gate @ Eight will be released on 18 March 2027 and will later be available as a ZunTold Living Book™ on their bibliotherapy platform, as well as a commercial ebook and audiobook.