Variety reports that several studios are chasing the rights to "Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell," a novel by first-timer Susanna Clarke about two feuding magicians set against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars.

Whilst this may sound like a kids book, it's in fact 800 pages long and filled with complex layers definitely designed for adults. Even though it's a Brit book, it launched first in the US and already Clarke's agent is being bombarded with calls and emails from Hollywood producers. New Line, Warners, Dreamworks and Sony are already in touch with offers for the film rights.

However, creative control for Clarke is looking to be a bargaining point. Clarke spent a decade penning the book and she's now working on a follow-up with some of the same characters, making the book even more tempting to filmmakers as a potential franchise.

Thanks to 'Casey'.