Bloomsbury Children's 'finds Pierre' with author-illustrator Emma Clarke in two-book deal

Bloomsbury Children’s has "found Pierre" with author-illustrator Emma Clarke in a two-book deal.

Bloomsbury’s head of illustrated publishing, Lara Hancock, acquired world all-language rights to Clarke’s debut Where’s Pierre? in a "significant" pre-empt from Millie van Grutten at RCW Literary Agency.

The publisher described the book as an "exciting debut from a brilliant new voice" and "a joyful celebration of friendship featuring one missing penguin and a whole lot of silliness".

Pari Thomson, editorial director of illustrated publishing, said: "We fell in love with Bear and Pierre from the very first moment. Emma’s artwork and storytelling feel both contemporary and timeless, and we’re very happy to be publishing her irresistibly sweet and funny books at Bloomsbury."

Clarke added: "I’m delighted that Bear and Pierre have found their home at Bloomsbury. Where is Pierre? has been such a joy to create, and I can’t wait to share their adventures with readers."

Publishing in the UK in April 2026, with the second book to follow in June 2027, Where is Pierre? is a superlead rights title heading to Bologna International Book Fair this spring.

Bloomsbury added that it "is more focused than ever on promoting reading for pleasure in children" and books like Where is Pierre? are a key part of this ongoing strategy, adding: "Bloomsbury is committed to sparking a love of reading from the very youngest age with funny picture books full of characters and stories that children will relate to."