HarperCollins has confirmed that it will publish a high-stakes thriller novel co-written by renowned author James Patterson and YouTube sensation MrBeast, with a release scheduled for 2026. The yet-to-be-titled book is set to captivate audiences with its pulse-pounding plot and global appeal.
James Patterson, known for his best-selling Alex Cross series and other prolific works, has sold over 425 million copies of his books worldwide. MrBeast, whose real name is James Stephen “Jimmy” Donaldson, has built a massive following of over 390 million subscribers on YouTube, where his elaborate challenges and philanthropic projects have made him a household name. Together, the duo is teaming up for a thrilling new venture in the literary world.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the novel will feature a gripping story in which 100 contestants from around the world compete in a high-stakes global competition. The contestants face extreme and dangerous tests in perilous locations, where the struggle for survival is just as intense as the need to prove their leadership skills. Along the way, alliances will form, betrayals will unfold, and eliminations will occur—many of them deadly. The winner of this brutal contest will take home a staggering one billion dollars.
Patterson, whose work has been adapted into numerous films and television series, expressed his excitement for the project, stating, “One thought has driven my choices for the past couple of years: ‘My time here is short—what can I do most beautifully?’ I met MrBeast at his studio; we talked for several hours and settled on an idea we were incredibly excited to turn into a novel. I think it’s going to turn on readers all over the world.”
MrBeast echoed Patterson’s enthusiasm, adding, “I’m pumped to be teaming up with James, one of the best-selling authors of all time, on this action-packed story. We’re both passionate about inspiring people around the world to read more, and I hope this also opens doors for other creators looking to get published.”
HarperCollins President and CEO Brian Murray also expressed his support for the collaboration, emphasizing the significance of combining the worlds of social media and literature. “In the age of social media, storytelling has the power to travel the globe in an instant—and when the world’s No. 1 thriller writer and the No. 1 social media creator come together to write a book, it demands a global, simultaneous release, which HarperCollins is uniquely positioned to provide. We’re thrilled to be the publishing partner of James Patterson and MrBeast for this groundbreaking project, and proud to bring it to audiences in 15 languages.”
The novel will be published worldwide in English, with additional translations into 14 other languages through HarperCollins’ Global Publishing Program.
Fans of Patterson’s previous works, particularly his well-known Alex Cross series, can expect this latest collaboration to bring a unique blend of action, suspense, and international intrigue. As the thriller genre continues to captivate readers, this partnership between MrBeast and James Patterson promises to be one of the most anticipated literary releases of 2026.
