Posted by Boarding your ship on the journey of a children’s book author today, in 2023, opens up a world of diverse publishing possibilities. With a multitude of online resources at your disposal, you have a wealth of opportunities to bring your stories to life.
However, navigating this ever-changing scenery requires careful planning and consideration. In the traditional publishing orbit, the path often involves enlisting the services of an agent to champion your work reaching out to publishers in the hopes of sparking their interest.
But what if you find yourself in a situation where neither an agent nor a publisher is in sight?
Here’s an option for you – submit your work directly to the publisher, even if they haven’t asked for it. This is what’s known as an “unsolicited manuscript” – a piece of writing that an editor at a publishing company hasn’t specifically requested from you.
It might sound intimidating, but remember, every author started out this way; no one was born with a publisher or an agent. The good news is that there are several publishing houses in the US that welcome unsolicited submissions.
Here are a few of them:
Top 08 Children’s Book Publishing Houses in the US
1- Book Writing HQ
BookWriting HQ is a prominent player in the world of children’s book writing services and book publishing services, boasting a global presence. Since its inception, Book Writing HQ has cultivated a roster of highly acclaimed children’s authors spanning all age groups. Notably, their children’s book offerings have enjoyed a surge in popularity, frequently gracing the esteemed bestseller list.
Their mission revolves around the cultivation of fresh voices, unique visions, and diverse perspectives, with a primary goal of nurturing the curiosity and learning journey of lifelong readers.
Book Writing HQ has carved out a niche for itself by excelling in the publication of high fantasy fiction and heartwarming narratives that serve as accessible gateways for young readers to explore emotional intelligence themes.
On the non-fiction front, their manuscripts delve into a myriad of subjects, spanning the facets of nature, mathematics, science, the arts, and themes of diversity.
With your unsolicited manuscripts in your hands, you can always knock on the doors at Book Writing HQ to see your upcoming children’s book in the bestseller list.
2- Charlesbridge
Charlesbridge, a renowned publishing house, eagerly welcomes manuscripts across a wide spectrum of genres, catering to various age groups, from board books to young adult novels.
The scope of Charlesbridge’s children’s division is impressively comprehensive, encompassing a wide range of books tailored to various age groups, from delightful picture books to engrossing young adult novels.
In the world of fiction, Charlesbridge seeks manuscripts that captivate readers with compelling plots and relatable characters, ensuring an engaging and enriching literary experience.
For aspiring authors looking to submit their work, the process begins with a well-written cover letter. This letter should provide essential personal information, highlight any prior publications, and showcase relevant writing experience.
It’s essential to note that Charlesbridge has specific submission guidelines tailored to each manuscript type, so make sure you review them before signing up.
3- Chicago Review Press
Chicago Review Press, a highly regarded publishing house in the US, extends a welcoming hand to authors across a diverse spectrum of literary genres, which notably includes children’s books writing service. Each year, Chicago Review Press proudly introduces more than 60 new titles to the literary world, and at its core, it cherishes the essence of originality in the literary works it chooses to publish.
While this publishing powerhouse showcases a keen interest in nonfiction manuscripts across various subjects, it’s crucial to bear in mind that it does not publish picture books and is presently not in the market for fiction submissions.
Chicago Review Press boasts a noteworthy track record, having garnered numerous accolades for its children’s book line, aptly named “For Kids.”
Nevertheless, the publisher remains open to a wide array of children’s literature, reflecting its commitment to cultivating enduring partnerships with its authors.
4- Sleeping Bear Press
Nestled in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Sleeping Bear Press stands as a prominent figure in the world of children’s book publishing, renowned for crafting captivating and enriching tales for young readers.
The company set off on its literary journey in 1988, making a debut with the beloved title “The Legend of Sleeping Bear.” Since that inception, Sleeping Bear Press has solidified its position as a preeminent publisher of children’s books, amassing a wealth of awards and critical acclaim for its commitment to thought-provoking content.
Sleeping Bear Press specializes in the creation of both picture books and middle-grade novels, encompassing both fiction and nonfiction genres. Currently, the submission process exclusively operates through email channels. Aspiring authors are encouraged to attach their manuscripts in Word format while including pertinent information directly in the body of the email.
This information should comprise a cover letter (please refrain from attaching cover letters separately), the author’s full name, postal address, any prior publishing experience, the word count of the manuscript, and a concise summary of the work.
5- Kane Miller Press
Kane Miller Press, a division under the umbrella of EDC Publishing, specializes in the publication of picture books across a wide spectrum of genres, with a particular emphasis on narratives featuring American subjects. As they aim to expand their collection of picture books, authors in this genre may find a fitting home at Kane Miller.
In addition to picture books, Kane Miller also extends a welcoming embrace to chapter books and middle-grade fiction, with a specific interest in stories that revolve around the theme of community. They value firsthand experiences that lend authenticity to these narratives.
If you believe that your work aligns with Kane Miller Press’s publishing goals, the submission process is straightforward. Simply send an email to submissions@kanemiller.com, and within the body of the email, include a brief cover letter along with the complete manuscript (please refrain from sending attachments).
6- Might Media Press
Mighty Media Press actively seeks literary works and multimedia creations that have the power to ignite a child’s curiosity, stimulate their imagination, foster social awareness, and embolden their sense of adventure.
Such criteria are so pivotal to their mission that they have a stringent policy of not publishing any material that falls short of these standards.
Might Media Press’s portfolio encompasses a wide spectrum of offerings, including picture books tailored for children aged 0 to 8, junior readers catering to ages 4 to 11, as well as middle-grade fiction and nonfiction designed for ages 11 to 13.
Submitting your work to Mighty Media Press is a streamlined process. Begin by providing your email address on their submissions page. In response, Mighty Media will promptly furnish you with a link through which you can upload your submission materials.
Mighty Media Press extends an invitation to authors and creators who are aligned with their mission to explore this opportunity and share their imaginative and socially conscious works with young readers.
7- Pagestreet Publishing
Pagestreet Publishing, though relatively new in the publishing landscape, has swiftly established itself as a noteworthy player in the industry.
With a particular focus on children’s literature, Pagestreet Publishing is actively seeking submissions in various categories, encompassing both fiction and nonfiction picture books, along with young adult novels.
Notably, the publisher is in the process of expanding its collection of illustrated children’s books, rendering it an appealing choice for authors considering unsolicited submissions.
Submitting your manuscript to Pagestreet Publishing is a straightforward process. Start by composing a concise query letter, which should be sent via email. If your submission consists of text only, attach your book as a Word document.
8- Phaidon
Phaidon specializes in the creation of beautifully illustrated children’s books tailored for young readers aged 0 to 8. Their offerings encompass a wide range, spanning picture books, novelty books, and board books.
However, Phaidon maintains a distinct brand identity, and therefore, they exclusively consider works that align with their brand and style.
Authors interested in submitting their work to Phaidon are strongly encouraged to familiarize themselves with the publisher’s store to gain a thorough understanding of the type of content and aesthetics they are seeking.
Phaidon welcomes authors who believe their work resonates with the Phaidon brand to explore this opportunity and share their creative contributions in the realm of children’s literature.
That’s a Wrap! Or May Not…
In the world of publishing without an agent, it can feel like a big challenge. But don’t give up! With plenty of publishing companies out there, you can help yourself in finding your way to young readers.
Remember, it’s a crowded field, and not everyone gets in easily. Many writers are waiting for their chance. But the list we’ve given is a good place to start. These companies can be like guides, helping you connect with the right folks to make your book reach kids all over the world.
So, keep believing in your work, stay persistent, and learn about these companies. They’re like the keys that can open doors to your dreams of sharing stories with young readers all around the globe!