Wednesday, 22 October 2025 Books+Publishing @booksandpublishing
MidnightSun has acquired world rights to Big Brother Brody, a YA novel by Benjamin John Ryan.
The novel is set in a world coming to an end because of a zombie apocalypse. For Alex, the apocalypse means he has to put off telling his family he is gay. He and his brother, Brody, must set off to find safety.
Ryan is a screenwriter, creative producer and author. Initially self-published, Big Brother Brody was a finalist in the 2019 American Fiction Awards.
Ryan said, “Inspiration for the story came from a passion to see queer stories take their rightful place in the mainstream … Big Brother Brody is all about facing your demons and persevering when times are difficult.
“[The book is] for anyone out there who feels like an outsider or is struggling with identity. You don’t have to do it alone.”
MidnightSun director of publishing Anna Solding described Big Brother Brody as “a heartwarming gay coming-of-age story wrapped in a zombie adventure”.
“Ryan has created a world where young readers will feel heard and safe to explore the worries of coming out while at the same time being taken on a trek to safety, away from the undying as well as from prejudiced humans.”
Big Brother Brody is slated for release in September 2026.
Category: Local news Rights and acquisitions