In what it's calling a "prestige imprint," Turner Publishing has announced the launch of Keylight Books.
Focused on fiction that it says is ideal to adapt into movies, TV shows and streaming content, the imprint will be overseen by executive editor at Turner Stephanie Beard. Set to release 12 titles annually it will aim to publish, Turner said, "character-driven
stories and compelling perspectives."
Before launching the imprint, the indie press had amped up its TV and film rights program by partnering with packager Carey Nelson Burch, founder of the TV/film rights consultancy My Own Shingle. Turner said that since bringing Nelson on board, it has closed 10 film and TV deals with companies including Sony Television and Echo Lake Entertainment.
Describing the new imprint, Turner president Todd Bottorff said the goal is to "bring to life creative and compelling voices and stories" while specifically creating opportunities for adaptation. He went on: "We see this new imprint as a means to solidify our entry into the world of film and TV.”
The first book to be released under the Keylight banner is Kim Hooper's All the Acorns on the Forest Floor, which is set for September. Turner said the novel, which is Hooper's third with the publisher, "tells the poignant and moving stories of multiple characters linked by their experiences as mothers, daughters, and lovers." Beard added that the book, which has an announced first printing of 100,000 copies, showcases Turner's ability with "relatable and interesting characters that actors yearn to play."
Correction: An earlier version of this story misstated the pub date for All the Acorns on the Forest Floor as September 2021. It is being published in September 2020.
