NEW YORK (Reuters) – Emily Ratajkowski sold her book “Mother F–ker” for a seven-figure sum to Penguin Press after a 12-way bidding war. The deal was finalized on July 8, 2026.
The auction erupted following the viral publication of Ratajkowski’s essay on The Cut. The piece detailed her post-divorce dating life as a single mother. It garnered millions of views within days.
Penguin Press won the rights in a competitive process, paying in the low seven figures. The book is a novel based on the essay’s themes. It promises an unfiltered look at modern dating, motherhood, and female sexuality.
The Daily Beast described the manuscript as “audacious.” Deadline called it “spicy” and “bold.” Ratajkowski’s agent confirmed the book will be released in late 2027.
Publishing insiders cite the raw, confessional tone as a key driver of the demand. The deal reflects a broader market appetite for authentic celebrity narratives over polished PR accounts.
| Key Detail | Data |
|---|---|
| Title | ‘Mother F–ker’ |
| Publisher | Penguin Press |
| Auction Participants | 12 |
| Deal Value | Seven figures (low) |
| Source Material | Viral essay on The Cut |
| Expected Release | 2027 |
Ratajkowski, 35, is best known as a model and actress. She has written previously on feminism and body politics. “Mother F–ker” marks her first fictional work.
The author has not commented publicly on the deal. Her representative confirmed the terms to Page Six on Wednesday.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What is the title of Emily Ratajkowski’s new book?
- A: The book is titled ‘Mother F–ker’.
- Q: How much did Penguin Press pay for the rights?
- A: The deal was worth a low seven-figure sum.
- Q: What inspired the book deal?
- A: A viral essay on The Cut about her post-divorce dating life as a single mother sparked a 12-way auction.
Extended Reading
The deal was first reported by Page Six, which cited exclusive sources. The Daily Beast and Deadline later confirmed the auction details. All three outlets noted the essay’s viral trajectory as the catalyst.