Submissions

To keep updated about submission opportunities, make sure to follow along on the Grace Bell Publishing Facebook page or sign up to our newsletter

 

******

Current opportunities

 

  • Illustrators are welcome to get in touch via an expression of interest form. Please complete this form here.

 

  • Authors interested in studio-led projects, please complete an expressions of interest (by end of January 26) at this form here.

 

******

Grace Bell Publishing operates on a traditional royalty model. Please read our FAQs.

Grace Bell Publishing now CLOSED to submissions. SUBMISSIONS WILL OPEN AGAIN IN 2026. 

Grace Bell Publishing - Manuscript Wish List 

About Grace Bell Publishing

  1. Please read the About section for Grace Bell Publishing (GBP).
  2. As we are an Australian publishing company, GBP will give preference to Australian authors.

Recommended Reading

For an understanding of the publishing industry, we recommend the Writers’ & Artists’ Yearbook. This is a UK publication, but the Australian publishing industry is relatively similar to the UK. You can also borrow it from your local library.

What We are Looking For

Overall

We are seeking stories that are interesting, well written, and have a clear hook.
As the saying goes: ‘I’ll know it when I see it…’

Picture Books:

We are looking for:

  • character-driven picture books with humour, heart, or, ideally, both. (Preference for author/illustrators)
  • word count under 1,000 words
  • rhyme is welcome, if done well
  • a strong plot with unique characters, with a clear commercial hook
  • stories that fill a gap in the market
  • 24 or 32-page spreads
  • a fresh voice and engaging storytelling 
  • Matches in with the tagline for the Grace Bell Kids imprint, which is 'Pure Fun'
  • Illustration notes included, please.

Illustrators – please ensure your portfolio shows:

  • expression, energy, movement, consistency, and varied angles

Middle Grade / Teen / Young Adult

We welcome series or standalones (series preferred);

  • We’d love to see more books for boys
  • Topics that genuinely resonate with kids and teens
  • Historical, fantasy, action, comedy, or contemporary genres
  • Authentic, relatable characters
  • Sweet, funny, or heartfelt stories are always of interest

Ideally, your book or series will:

  • have a strong hook
  • be wholesome and fun
  • offer a fresh and unique plot
  • include some humour
  • be commercial with broad appeal to the target audience

Adult Fiction

We’re love to see well-written, commercial fiction. We have a particular love for historical fiction (please!)