Sarah Davies

About

Sarah Davies is the founder of Greenhouse Literary Agency, a transatlantic agency specializing in children's and young adult literature. Originally from the UK publishing world, she founded Greenhouse Literary in 2008 to bridge the US and UK children's book markets. She is highly regarded in the children's book publishing community.

Currently Looking For

I was a publisher for 25 years  before becoming a literary agent in 2008 and launching Greenhouse. I’ve lived and worked in both the States and UK, so my experience of the publishing industry is deep and wide ranging. The international scene is part of my view of publishing potential, and I love manuscripts that can work around the world (though that’s not essential). I was an editor and senior publisher for many years, and my ability to help develop/build stories with authors has been key to our success. I called the agency Greenhouse because I’m passionate about the cultivation of talent. I particularly specialize in MG (including younger chapter-book series) and YA, both fiction and non-fiction. Alongside this core, I sell picture books by existing clients, and am also looking to increase our list of adult, female-oriented, suspense fiction (by referral only). I love strong concepts/hooks, which intrigue me and make me turn the page, but also make me think. I like MSS with new ideas I’ve not seen before – even if they still need a bit more development. I love interesting narrative structures, formats, timelines, and diverse, #ownvoices writers from all backgrounds and perspectives who take risks and have big ideas. What I’m currently seeking: Graphic novels/series — especially within MG: You will ideally be both author and illustrator (or already have teamed up with an illustrator), so text and design are interwoven right from the start. I want to see the format used in a way that really shapes the story and brings it to life (ie, so there’s a reason why it’s a graphic novel!). MG: I love classic, gorgeous fiction with tons of heart that takes the protagonist on an inward AND outward journey. This might be contemporary with a spritz of magic or magical realism.  I’m also seeking action-packed stories with a uniquely adventurous premise. Again, #ownvoices particularly welcome. Also, different structures, formats, illustrative potential are great. Non-Fiction (across all age groups): A little-known story about a well-known person? A well-known story about someone less well known? I’ve got to feel the hook of the work can hit home and big enough to find a market, and that no one’s covered it yet. YA: Here I’m being very picky. I want to see: * Twisty, hooky suspense  and psychological thrillers (think ONE OF US IS LYING by Karen McManus). *  Smart, charming, freshly told love stories and hooky rom-coms (think TEN BLIND DATES by Ashley Elston or THE CUBAN GIRL’S GUIDE TO TEA AND TOMORROW by Laura Taylor Namey). If possible with diverse characters and different cultural backdrops. * Dramatic/romantic/intriguing stories in foreign settings that feel absolutely authentic and bring to life political or cultural situations (Israel-Palestine, France, modern Scandinavia?). * Sexy, relatable historical set in a fascinating period of the past (not US Revolutionary War or Civil War). * A very scary house or town that holds secrets and ghosts, whether real o

Submission Guidelines

Submissions should be emailed to https://querymanager.com/query/SarahDavies All our queries are now via Query Tracker, and you can find find out everything you need to know on the Submissions page of our website. Just follow the instructions as you click through! Guidelines & Details Vital Info @SarahGreenhouse Facebook Website

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