Adams Literary is exclusively dedicated to representing the finest children’s book authors and artists. While we have an established client list, we do seek new talent—and we accept submissions from both published and aspiring authors and artists. Please carefully review our guidelines before submitting.
What We Look For
We know that you are just as passionate about children’s books as we are. Our clients’ work spans every age and every genre—from picture books to middle-grade and young adult fiction, from historical novels and fantasy to books that tackle important contemporary issues.
While we give every submission careful consideration, we look for unforgettable, life-changing books: literary stories, high-concept speculative fiction, unique fantasy adventure, humor, and character-driven picture books. At this time, we only consider picture book submissions from author-artists (someone who is both author and artist of their work, not a team). We gravitate toward the timeless, not the trendy. We don’t typically handle textbooks, novelty, craft, how-to or coloring books—and we don’t handle any adult works.
Submission Process
We take submissions only through the online form on our website. (We recycle any unsolicited submissions we receive by post.) On the form, enter your contact details, query (including a short synopsis), and attach your complete manuscript as a DOC or PDF file; for picture book author-artists, include your website or attach a PDF of your illustrations so we may view your art samples. We cannot accept any files over 10MB in size.
Response Time
We’ve done our best to streamline our submission process—and we strive to review submissions quickly. We deeply regret that we can no longer respond to everyone personally; please understand that we receive over 10,000 submissions each year. Once we’ve reviewed your work, if we are interested in discussing possible representation, we will contact you by email or phone—typically within 6 weeks.
Once you've submitted to Adams Literary, if you receive an offer of representation or publication, we kindly ask that you follow up through the online form (referencing your original submission) to update us on the status.
Defying the Odds
As a boutique agency, we are by nature highly selective. Out of the 10,000+ submissions we receive each year, we extend offers of representation to only a handful of new clients. Thinking we can sell a project isn't just our main criteria—completely believing in the story, the author and/or artist, and falling in love with a project are. We know how hard you work on your craft—and we do, too. For those willing to brave the odds—and defy them—you'll find no more dedicated and passionate advocate than us. Because you deserve no less.
Wishing you the very best,
Tracey and Josh
