Donnelly joins Bloomsbury Children's Books

Scholastic’s Strawberrie Donnelly has joined Bloomsbury Children’s Books in the newly created role of art director.

Donnelly joins Bloomsbury on 1st August, reporting to creative director Stephanie Amster. She will head up Bloombury’s picture book and illustrated fiction design team after previously being art director at Scholastic. Working closely with publishing director Emma Blackburn, Donnelly is charged with developing Bloomsbury’s pool of illustration talent, which includes Tom Percival, Sarah Massini, David Tazzyman, Laura Ellen Andersen and Laura Hughes amongst others. 

Donnelly has previously worked for Little Tiger Press, Igloo and Macmillan Children's Books. 

Amster said: “Strawberrie is renowned for her picture book prowess and brings a wealth of experience to our creative team. This new addition reflects our high ambitions for our picture book list.”

Donnelly added: “I've always admired Bloomsbury for their beautiful book publishing, and their matchless creative courage in nurturing writing and illustration talent from a wide range of genres and backgrounds. Bloomsbury champion storytelling in all its forms, and their commitment to push creative boundaries shines through in every book they publish; singing out to new generations of picture book readers. I'm thrilled to now be part of their stellar publishing team, and very much looking forward to the challenges and creative adventure ahead.”