Pulse Films Options Rights to Moses McKenzie Novel

Pulse Films has optioned the rights to adapt Moses McKenzie’s debut novel An Olive Grove in Ends, which is set to be published in April in the U.K.

The coming-of-age story follows the turbulent and painful childhood of Sayon Hughes, a young Black man from Bristol, who tries to keep his crimes secret from the pastor’s daughter he’s in love with. Hughes dreams of a world far removed from the one in which he is raised, free of the bookies’ tickets, burnt spoons and crooked solutions.

U.K. publisher Wildfire is set to release the novel in April, with U.S. publisher Little, Brown and Company releasing it in May.

“We are thrilled to have secured the rights to Moses McKenzie’s highly sought-after debut novel,” said Abigail Dennis, senior development producer at Pulse Films. “I immediately fell in love with Moses’ lyrical, sophisticated and authentic storytelling. Moses is an extraordinary, once-in-a-generation talent who I’m confident has a prolific career ahead of him.”

McKenzie commented, “From the first conversations with the Pulse team, my agent and I knew we’d found people who understood what I’m aiming to achieve with this story, and who have the creative flair and determination to develop an outstanding TV adaptation. I want to create something beautiful, something that will be beautiful now and in 50 years’ time.”

“Moses McKenzie is an exceptional, new and exciting talent, and we can’t wait to bring this unique and compelling story to global audiences,” said Thomas Benski, CEO of Pulse Films. “He is the perfect example of the up-and-coming, standout writing talent we search out. We are committed to championing new and diverse talent in the industry and feel incredibly proud to be at Moses’ side at the start of his career.”