Emily Talbot

In fiction, I work on everything from young fiction through to young adult. On the younger end (5-8) an author/illustrator approach is the most appealing, although I am very happy to receive text only submissions. The key for this age group is an accessible, commercial approach with a strong series arc and a memorable central character. In middle grade I’m happy to look at everything from contemporary realism through to world building fantasy. In particular though I’d love a mystery or something spooky (think The Haunting of Aveline Jones), a sparky voice led diary format series that plays with the format or brings a fresh perspective, and I’m always open to graphic novel ideas. In Teen and YA, I love books that touch on the gritty realisms of life such as the writing of Louise O’Neill and Holly Bourne. I would also love to find a romance with a twist, perhaps something sport led or that has a speculative element to it. I also think there is space for illustration at the older end – I’d love to find the next Heartstopper! I don’t tend to work in the crossover space, and I am also not the right agent for Romantasy.

In any age group the thing I am most driven by is great characterisation. I want characters who immediately leap off the page and stay with you long after you’ve finished the book. I am also on the hunt for a distinctive, new and underrepresented voice in children’s literature, whatever age group that may find itself in.

In nonfiction, I’d like hooky subjects that capture the imagination, interesting and unique narrative approaches and new spins on universal subjects. Trade nonfiction should be fun, informative and easy to digest rather than too educational, so I’m looking for a new voice in this space, as much as I would be in fiction.