Literary Agents Accepting Picture Book Submissions in the UK

Introduction: Why Picture Book Writers Need a Literary Agent

Writing a children’s picture book is an art form — short, visual, rhythmic, and full of heart. But publishing one, especially in the UK market, can be challenging without the right connections. That’s where literary agents come in.

A literary agent acts as the bridge between your creative vision and the publishers who can bring it to life. Agents pitch your manuscript to top children’s publishers, negotiate contracts, and guide your career long-term.

If you’re searching for literary agents accepting picture book submissions in the UK, this article provides a comprehensive overview — including who’s open for submissions, how to approach them, and tips for crafting a winning query.

1. Understanding Picture Book Submissions

Before diving into the list of UK agencies, let’s clarify what “picture book submissions” really mean in publishing.

A picture book submission is what you send to a literary agent when seeking representation. It typically includes:

• A short cover letter (query)
• The full picture book manuscript (text only or text + sample illustrations)
• A short bio introducing you as the author or illustrator
• Optional: a dummy book PDF or portfolio link (for author-illustrators)

In the UK, picture book manuscripts are usually 300–800 words and should stand alone without depending on illustrations to make sense.

If you’re a writer-only, focus on text clarity, rhythm, and market appeal. If you’re an author-illustrator, ensure your art samples demonstrate consistent character design, pacing, and style.

2. How to Find Literary Agents for Picture Books

There are hundreds of literary agents in the UK, but only a select group specialize in children’s publishing — and even fewer actively take on picture books.

The best ways to find them include:

• Agency websites – Most UK literary agencies have a “Submissions” page specifying genres they represent.
• The Writers’ & Artists’ Yearbook – An annual directory of literary agents and publishers in the UK.
• Reedsy & QueryTracker – Online databases where you can filter by “Children’s Picture Books.”
• Book acknowledgments – Check the acknowledgments section in popular UK picture books; authors often thank their agents.

3. Top UK Literary Agents Accepting Picture Book Submissions (2025)

Below are reputable agencies currently open to submissions from picture book authors and author-illustrators.

1. Greyhound Literary

What They Want:
Greyhound Literary represents a broad range of children’s writers, from picture books to middle grade and YA. They welcome author-illustrators and writers of picture books with strong concepts and commercial appeal.

Submission Guidelines:

• Email only (no postal submissions)
• Include a cover letter, full text, and sample illustrations (if applicable)
• Mention comparable published titles

Why It’s Great:
Greyhound Literary has successfully placed debut picture books with major UK publishers and is known for nurturing early-career authors.

2. A.M. Heath & Co. Ltd

What They Want:
This long-established London agency represents bestselling children’s authors and illustrators. The children’s department, led by Julia Churchill, is open to picture books, middle grade, and YA.

Submission Guidelines:

• Send a short query + full picture book text
• For illustrators, link to an online portfolio
• Allow 8–12 weeks for a reply

Why It’s Great:
A.M. Heath has represented iconic authors, offering a strong editorial focus and excellent publisher connections.

3. Bell Lomax Moreton Agency

What They Want:
Their agents represent a wide range of children’s literature and are known for discovering new author-illustrators. They’re open to picture books with strong emotional cores and distinct voices.

Submission Guidelines:

• Submit via their online form or email as directed
• Include your manuscript and portfolio link
• Attach low-resolution samples only

Why It’s Great:
They have placed several debut authors with major UK and US publishers and maintain long-term relationships with illustrators.

4. Darley Anderson Children’s Book Agency

What They Want:
Darley Anderson Children’s is a powerhouse agency representing everything from board books to YA fiction. They accept picture book submissions year-round from both authors and illustrators.

Submission Guidelines:

• Send a full manuscript or three complete texts
• Include a brief author bio
• If you’re an illustrator, attach 2–3 sample illustrations

Why It’s Great:
They represent bestselling authors like Cathy Cassidy and are known for their hands-on editorial guidance.

5. The Catchpole Agency

What They Want:
Specialists in children’s publishing, The Catchpole Agency welcomes picture books, novelty books, and early readers. They focus on commercial potential and international rights.

Submission Guidelines:

• Email query + full text
• Illustrators: include a link to your online portfolio

Why It’s Great:
Catchpole has strong connections with both UK and international publishers, making it ideal for authors hoping for global reach.

6. Fraser Ross Associates

What They Want:
Representing both illustrators and writers, this agency is known for its design-led approach. They love picture books with artistic flair and narrative depth.

Submission Guidelines:

• Send a short query + sample illustrations
• Include 2–3 completed texts if possible

Why It’s Great:
They maintain close ties with major picture-book publishers like Walker Books and Nosy Crow.

7. Caroline Sheldon Literary Agency

What They Want:
One of the UK’s most respected agencies for children’s authors and illustrators. Caroline Sheldon and Penny Holroyde both represent award-winning picture book creators.

Submission Guidelines:

• Email a concise query + one or two manuscripts
• Attach a PDF portfolio if you’re an illustrator

Why It’s Great:
Decades of experience and a strong client list make this a dream agency for serious picture book creators.

8. The Bright Agency

What They Want:
The Bright Agency is one of the largest illustration and licensing agencies worldwide, representing hundreds of children’s illustrators and author-illustrators.

Submission Guidelines:

• Submit through their online form
• Include your portfolio link
• They are not suited for text-only authors

Why It’s Great:
They specialize in visual storytelling and can secure high-value deals with top publishers across the UK, US, and Europe.

4. How to Submit a Picture Book to a UK Agent

When you find an agency that fits your work, follow their guidelines carefully. Here’s what to include in a professional picture book submission:

1. Cover Letter (Query)

Your query should:

• Address the agent by name
• Introduce your book in one paragraph (title, genre, word count, theme)
• Add a short “hook” or elevator pitch
• Include a short author bio mentioning relevant experience or publications

2. Manuscript

• Include the full picture book text (unless otherwise stated).
• Format cleanly: double-spaced, 12-point font, no illustrations embedded unless requested.
• For author-illustrators: attach a low-res PDF with sample spreads or a link to an online portfolio.

3. Synopsis (Optional)

For picture books, a synopsis isn’t always required, but if the agent requests one, keep it short (under one page).

4. Portfolio (for Illustrators)

Include 8–10 images showcasing:

• Consistent character design
• Expressive storytelling
• Understanding of pacing and page turns

5. What Agents Look for in Picture Book Submissions

Literary agents who handle picture books look for more than cute ideas. They seek manuscripts that can sell to publishers and connect emotionally with young readers.

Here’s what they prioritize:

• Strong concept: Universal themes like friendship, courage, or belonging
• Distinct voice: Rhythmic, readable text with personality
• Page-turn quality: Tension and surprise that keep kids engaged
• Illustration potential: Visual storytelling opportunities
• Market awareness: Comparable titles and audience fit

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

When submitting your picture book to a UK literary agent, steer clear of these pitfalls:

1. Ignoring guidelines – Every agency’s submission rules differ. Not following them may get your query deleted.
2. Sending unfinished work – Only submit polished, final drafts.
3. Including illustrations if you’re not an artist – Let the publisher pair you with one.
4. Querying multiple agents in one agency – Choose one unless permitted.
5. Overwriting – Keep picture book text concise (300–800 words).

7. What Happens After You Submit

If an agent loves your work, they may request:

• More manuscripts (many agents want 2–3 picture books to see your range)
• A call to discuss representation
• Revisions before offering a contract

Once you sign, your agent will:

• Edit your text for submission
• Pitch your work to UK publishers like Walker Books, Bloomsbury, Puffin, or Nosy Crow
• Negotiate publishing and foreign rights contracts

8. How Long Does It Take to Hear Back?

Most UK agencies respond within 6–12 weeks, though some may take longer.
If you haven’t heard back after 12 weeks, it’s fine to send a polite follow-up email — unless their website states “no response means no.”

9. Final Tips for Success

• Read modern UK picture books to understand tone, pacing, and market trends.
• Join the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI UK) for critique groups and submission advice.
• Be patient. Landing an agent for a picture book can take time.
• Keep writing new stories — agents love authors with multiple strong manuscripts.

Conclusion: Finding the Right UK Literary Agent for Your Picture Book

The UK has a vibrant market for children’s publishing, but it’s also competitive. Having the right literary agent can make all the difference between staying unpublished and seeing your picture book on the shelves of Waterstones or Foyles.

Start by researching agencies like Greyhound Literary, Darley Anderson, A.M. Heath, and Caroline Sheldon — all of which represent outstanding picture book creators.
Craft a professional submission, follow their guidelines, and showcase your unique storytelling voice.

Remember, agents are always looking for the next great children’s story. Your book might just be it.

Desclaimer: Ghostwriting LLC provides information solely as an educational resource. We are not connected to any agent listed, and we do not guarantee anything related to submissions, publication, or acceptance. Our services are limited to professional writing, editing, and marketing assistance to support authors in preparing their work for submission.