Alex is a Children’s Illustration Agent at Bright. Both creative and savvy, she pairs talented illustrators with manuscripts that perfectly complement their unique strengths and artistic styles. From board books through middle grade, no matter the format, Alex is well-versed in building spectacular relationships between client and artist.

Before joining Bright’s children’s division, Amy worked at both The Blair Partnership and WME supporting a wide range of clients from bestselling and debut authors to global brands. Prior to this she spent three years as a Development and Production Editor at Nelson Thornes, an educational publisher which is now part of Oxford University Press. Amy’s broad publishing experience alongside her passion for storytelling in all mediums makes her a supportive and enthusiastic agent.

Amy is currently on maternity leave, for all enquiries, get in touch here.

My passion is visual storytelling, and I specialize in trade children’s book publishing at Bright. I represent an array of award-winning artists worldwide. Having worked in this industry for over 20 years as a book designer and art buyer, I help my clients find the best artist to meet their aesthetic needs. I personally curate my artists’ portfolios and develop their author/illustrated picture book stories for acquisition. I’m always looking for new talent whom I can mentor into strong children’s book professionals, especially artists with whom publishers can confidently collaborate for successful partnerships.

James Burns joined Bright in 2009 and boasts a wide range of experience across the children’s and adult publishing markets. In 2014, he moved from the UK to lead the US office, a display of his ambitious, tenacious and adaptable traits. Under his leadership, Bright has established itself as a key player in the US and beyond. As an excellent communicator and relationship builder, this working style perfectly complements CEO and Founder Vicki Willden-Lebrecht’s visionary leadership and industry awareness. A proud advocate for traditionally marginalised voices and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, James is naturally drawn to creative work that reflects ownership of style and has strong messaging behind it. As Global MD, James oversees the overall working of the agency, all of Bright’s divisions and strives to drive new opportunities for all of our represented artists.

Nicky joined Bright in 2014 with extensive knowledge of the publishing industry, having worked in both editorial and product development for 10 years. With an unparalleled passion for driving and fostering growth, Nicky brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to her role. Her journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment and an unyielding belief in the power of collaboration, working on high-profile book deals with her efficient, hard-working and personable approach. Warm and sincere, she has a great understanding of the needs of the artist whilst delivering what is required for a publisher’s success. Nicky has worked on large, complex, branded characters, and is not only well-versed in deal structure but, with strategic thinking, also encourages the growth of backlist titles.

Susan is dedicated to nurturing and empowering artists and authors at all stages of their creative careers. Tuned-in to the evolving needs of the global Children’s Publishing landscape, she is well-versed in curating memorable portfolios that will inspire and enchant young readers. Conscientious, flexible and a keen listener, Susan is a calm and trusted pair of hands when running any project, and delights in cultivating meaningful partnerships. Her background in international law gives her a considered insight where the creative and contractual meet.

Children’s Education and Religion Agent

An award-winning design director, Robbin brings her vast experience of the publishing world to successfully pair great artists with outstanding clients. Since joining Bright in 2017, she has led the growth of Bright’s Education and Religion division in the US and has developed a glowing reputation for providing genuine and insightful advice to all. With compassion and care, Robbin has guided countless brilliant projects and has been the agent behind a host of major titles in the children’s publishing world.