Words and Pictures with Emma Layfield

Join us as we chat to Agent, Editor and Northern Publishing Superstar

Emma Layfield spent 25 years working in Editorial for Hachette Children’s Group originally in London before she moved and set up a new regional office closer to her family home in Manchester. She is the co-founder of Children's Books North (CBN) Network and sits on the board at Seven Stories and at Seven Stories Collection Trust.

Earlier this year Emma launched Children's Books North Agency (CBNA) which represents Northern and Scottish authors and illustrators of picture books, fiction and non-fiction. CBNA discovers and nurtures new talent, and takes creatives already in the industry to the next level of their careers.

Naomi previously worked with Emma at Hachette in London and always loved her passion for great story telling through words and pictures.

So, we were really excited when she agreed to answer some questions for us about starting her new agency.

It’s always interesting to hear from an agent’s perspective, especially when they have such a wealth of experience.

Both photos of Emma © Victoria Haydn

Why are words and pictures important to you?

I’ve worked in the wonderful world of picture books for 25 years so I appreciate first-hand how words and images can be woven together into one perfect whole. They beautifully bounce back and forth, taking turns to tell a different aspect of the story.

Why was it important to you to set up a publishing hub outside of London both in your new role as Director of Children's Book North Agency and in your previous role as Manchester Office Lead for Hachette UK?

There are only advantages to publishers and agents having a presence outside of London. Diversity and authenticity are key to the future of publishing, and it is important that the publishing industry is plugged into what's happening around the whole country.

There is so much talent in the North and Scotland, and I'm thrilled to be on the ground up here actively seeking out new voices and styles.

Plus it means I get to live in a beautiful part of the country with stunning dog walks in Lancashire, Yorkshire, the Peak District and the Lake District on my doorstep!

What kind of stories or artwork are you currently looking for from new authors and illustrators?

I want to be surprised with original takes on important themes, show-stopping concepts, breath-taking artwork and fresh voices with a playful use of language and form.

From heart and emotion to funny-bone-breaking humour, I am looking for the very best stories that will stand the test of time.

I’d also love to see strong character-led titles that have the potential to expand beyond books and into TV and merchandising.

Why did you move from working in editorial to becoming an agent?

I wanted to spend more time doing what I’d always loved most as a children’s book publisher -– discovering, developing and nurturing talent and championing regional diversity in the industry. There is huge talent in the North and I want to shine a light on that.

What is your favourite part of your job and what do you find the hardest about it?

My favourite part of being an agent is championing my client’s work, finding them the perfect publishing home, and guiding them through their publishing journey.

The hardest part of my job is that as a small, boutique agency, we are only able to take on a few new authors and illustrators each year. We need to consider the overall shape and balance of the list, and make sure that everyone has space to shine. However, this does mean that I am completely bowled over by the authors and illustrators I take on.

What is your favourite picture book?

Ooh, this is such a hard question! Sorry, I can’t possibly single out one book, but I can highlight some of my clients’ exciting, new picture books.

For a thought-provoking picture book that spark interesting conversations, I love Gina Kaminski Saves the Wolf illustrated by Francis Martin (written by Craig-Barr-Green).

For a joyful read-aloud book with bags of humour and silly rhymes, it has to be Holey Moley by Bethan Clarke (illustrated by Anders Frang).

And, for a picture book that celebrates love and inclusivity, it’s Rachel Plummer’s joyful The Big Day (illustrated by Forrest Burdett).

What advice would you offer to an author or illustrator who dreams of being published?

Read, read, read!

Before you start writing or illustrating your own book, go into a good book shop and check out current books on the market. Look at the competition, gaps in the market, and have a clear idea of where your book will sell and who it will appeal to.

Where do you see the future of children's books?

It is great to see that readers of all ages are embracing illustrations in books, and this is only set to continue.

From Mark Bradley’s funny, full-colour graphic novel Bumble and Snug to Jarvis’s wittily illustrated Bear and Bird to Chris Mould’s stunning adaptation of War of the Worlds, these books brilliantly showcase where words and pictures mingle and rely on each other.

Could you shine a light on someone in the publishing industry who inspires you?

In my career, I have been very lucky to have worked with many amazing people who inspired me every day.

At Hachette Children’s Group, I was lucky enough to work with Emma Blackburn who is now at Post Wave Publishing UK. Emma is an inspirational, positive force in publishing and a real champion of picture books and picture book talent. She thinks about the author’s/illustrator’s complete journey, believes in them and really backs them.

To find out more about Emma, do take a look at her new agency Childrens Books North Agency or you can follow her on Twitter, Instagram or LinkedIn.

A huge thank you to Emma for taking the time to answer these questions. It’s always fascinating to get a glimpse into how literary agents work and what they’re looking for.

We interview a different author, illustrator or publishing professional every Friday.

To learn more about life behind the scenes making books and make sure you never miss a post subscribe here: