Navigating the world of children's book publishing can feel like searching for a hidden key. You've poured your heart into a manuscript, but the biggest question remains: who will read it? Many aspiring authors believe every publisher's door is locked without a literary agent, but that's not the whole story. A surprising number of reputable publishers are actively seeking new voices directly from writers just like you.
This guide is your map. We've compiled a detailed list of publishers accepting children's book submissions, from vibrant picture books to compelling young adult novels. For each publisher, we provide direct links, submission guidelines, and a clear breakdown of what they are looking for, so you can target your efforts effectively. We’ll also cover platforms like Reedsy and Duotrope to help you manage and discover even more opportunities.
Understanding the internal processes of a publishing house can also give you a significant edge. Knowing how manuscripts move from submission to print through various editorial workflow solutions offers valuable insight into how your dream becomes a reality. This resource demystifies the submission process, helping you find the perfect home for your manuscript and turn your publishing goals into a tangible achievement.
1. Number 6 Publishing
Number 6 Publishing stands out as a premier choice for aspiring authors, operating as a passionate, family-run independent press. It was founded specifically to champion the underdog voices often overlooked by larger, more traditional houses. This publisher provides a vital platform for authors who may lack industry connections but possess powerful, imaginative stories waiting to be told.
Why It's a Top Choice for Authors
What truly sets Number 6 Publishing apart is its commitment to both authors and readers. They don't just publish books; they cultivate a community around literary diversity. Their curated catalog focuses on middle grade and YA fiction, featuring enchanting fantasies and poignant coming-of-age tales that resonate with readers aged 8 to 14.
Authors submitting to Number 6 Publishing join a publisher dedicated to ensuring their work reaches a wide audience through libraries, schools, and homes. In addition to their publishing efforts, they provide curated reading lists, which demonstrates their deep engagement with the children's literature landscape. For a closer look at their submission process and philosophy, you can get more information on publishers accepting children's book submissions on their blog.
Key Considerations
- Focus: Middle grade and YA (ages 8-14), especially fantasy and coming-of-age.
- Best For: Unagented authors and those with unique, heartfelt stories.
- Pricing: Most titles are accessibly priced around $14.95.
- Pros: Strong advocate for new voices; dedicated to accessibility and diversity.
- Cons: As a smaller press, its catalog and marketing reach are more limited than major publishers.
Website: https://www.number6publishing.com
2. Chronicle Books
Chronicle Books is a highly respected, independent publisher based in San Francisco, known for its distinctively designed, high-quality books. What makes them a standout for authors is their direct, unagented submission policy for children’s books, a rarity among major publishers. They are actively seeking unique, innovative, and visually driven projects that push creative boundaries.
This publisher is an excellent fit for creators whose work doesn't fit a conventional mold. Chronicle embraces unusual formats like board books, activity kits, and novelty items alongside traditional picture books, middle grade, and YA novels. Their detailed online submission guidelines are a major asset, providing clear, category-specific instructions that help authors tailor their pitch effectively.
Submission Insights & Key Details
Chronicle’s process is streamlined for clarity, though it requires patience. After emailing your submission to the correct departmental inbox, you receive an automated confirmation, but the typical review period is up to six months. Due to high volume, you will only hear back if they are interested.
- Submission Method: Email only; no hard copies accepted.
- Response Time: Acknowledged automatically, with a six-month review window for potential follow-up.
- What to Send: Full manuscripts for picture books; a query letter, synopsis, and first three chapters for middle grade/YA.
- Pro Tip: Carefully read their category-specific guidelines. Sending your project to the wrong email address could mean it is not reviewed.
- Website: https://www.chroniclebooks.com/pages/submissions
3. Holiday House
Holiday House holds the distinction of being the first U.S. publisher founded with the sole purpose of publishing children's books. This historic, independent publisher maintains a strong commitment to quality literature and is a fantastic option for writers, as it is one of the few traditional houses still open to unsolicited submissions. They welcome manuscripts across all children's categories, from picture books to young adult novels.
This publisher is a great fit for authors with polished, classic-feeling stories that have enduring appeal. Holiday House is known for its award-winning titles and has a reputation for high literary and artistic standards. A standout feature is their transparency; their FAQ page offers clear anti-scam guidance, demonstrating a respect for aspiring authors. This makes them a trusted destination for anyone seeking publishers accepting children's book submissions.
Submission Insights & Key Details
Holiday House's submission process is straightforward but requires patience, as they have a no-response-means-no policy. They primarily use a general email inbox for submissions, which is a streamlined but impersonal system. The review window is typically around four months, and you will only hear from an editor if they are interested in pursuing your project.
- Submission Method: Email is the primary method; some mail submissions are accepted under specific guidelines.
- Response Time: Approximately four months; authors will only receive a reply if there is interest.
- What to Send: Full manuscript for picture books; query letter and first 10 pages for novels.
- Pro Tip: Their guidelines explicitly state they do not accept AI-generated content. Ensure your submission is entirely your own original work.
- Website: https://holidayhouse.com/faqs/
4. Albert Whitman & Company
Albert Whitman & Company is an established independent publisher with a strong history of producing high-quality children's literature since 1919. They are a notable entry on any list of publishers accepting children's book submissions because they maintain a clear and open door for unagented authors. Their commitment to accessibility makes them a prime target for new voices in picture books, middle grade, and YA fiction.
This publisher is particularly appealing due to its straightforward email submission process. The guidelines are specific and easy to follow, taking the guesswork out of the initial approach. They also permit simultaneous submissions, which is a significant advantage for authors who are querying multiple publishers at once. Their catalog often features books that deal with important childhood themes, social-emotional learning, and diverse experiences.
Submission Insights & Key Details
Albert Whitman & Company streamlines the process through specific email subject line formatting, ensuring your manuscript reaches the right editor. While they don't send confirmation receipts, their system is efficient. However, the high volume of submissions means you will only receive a response if they are interested in pursuing your project, typically within six months.
- Submission Method: Email only, with strict subject line requirements.
- Response Time: Six-month review period; no response means they have passed.
- What to Send: Full manuscripts for picture books; a query letter, synopsis, and the first 10 pages for middle grade/YA.
- Pro Tip: Pay close attention to the 4MB file size limit for attachments. You may need to compress your files or send text-only documents to meet this requirement.
- Website: https://www.albertwhitman.com/submission-guidelines-for-unrepresented-authors/
5. Page Street Publishing
Page Street Publishing is a U.S.-based independent publisher with major distribution through Macmillan, making it an exciting find for unagented authors. They are known for actively seeking new talent and stand out by maintaining open email inboxes for both picture book and young adult submissions. Their focus is on high-concept, visually driven picture books and fresh, engaging YA novels across various genres.
This publisher is an excellent option for authors who have polished, submission-ready work but lack an agent. By providing distinct submission channels for different age categories, Page Street streamlines the process for creators. Their guidelines are straightforward, and their interest in discovering new voices makes them a valuable entry point into traditional publishing, especially for those in the picture book and YA spaces.
Submission Insights & Key Details
Page Street’s process is direct and email-based, but like many publishers accepting children's book submissions, they only respond if interested. The review window is relatively short, often taking two to three months. A key detail is that they do not currently accept middle grade or chapter book submissions, so be sure your work fits their specified categories.
- Submission Method: Email only, with separate addresses for picture books and YA.
- Response Time: 2–3 months; you will only hear back if they are interested.
- What to Send: A query letter and the full manuscript pasted into the body of the email.
- Pro Tip: Do not send attachments. Submissions with attachments are automatically deleted, so follow their "paste-in" rule precisely.
- Website: https://www.pagestreetpublishing.com/submission-guidelines
6. Tilbury House
Tilbury House is a U.S.-based publisher that carves a specific and impactful niche in children’s literature, focusing on picture books, early readers, and middle grade titles. What makes them a compelling choice for authors is their direct submission process and strong commitment to books centered on science, nature, social justice, and cultural diversity. They are actively seeking stories that educate, inspire, and encourage children to think critically about the world around them.
This publisher is an excellent fit for writers whose manuscripts have a clear educational or social-emotional purpose. Tilbury House values diverse voices and is particularly interested in projects with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) themes. As one of the dedicated independent children's book publishers, their focus on meaningful content makes them a standout among other publishers accepting children's book submissions.
Submission Insights & Key Details
The submission process at Tilbury House is straightforward, utilizing email for all correspondence. However, they have limited slots each season, making the selection process highly competitive. You will only receive a response if they are interested in pursuing your manuscript, typically within a six-month timeframe.
- Submission Method: Email only; send a cover letter in the body of the email with the manuscript attached.
- Response Time: Approximately six months; no response means they have passed on the project.
- What to Send: Full manuscripts for picture books; query letter and first few chapters for longer works.
- Pro Tip: Your cover letter is crucial. Clearly articulate how your manuscript aligns with their mission for social relevance and educational value.
- Website: https://www.tilburyhouse.com/submissions
7. Eerdmans Books for Young Readers (EBYR)
Eerdmans Books for Young Readers is a respected imprint with a strong reputation for producing thoughtful, beautifully crafted children's books that often explore spiritual, ethical, and social justice themes. What makes them a valuable entry among publishers accepting children's book submissions is their clear, direct approach to unsolicited manuscripts, particularly for picture books and middle-grade fiction. They seek stories that are honest, inspiring, and artfully told.
This publisher is an ideal choice for authors whose work carries depth and aims to spark meaningful conversations. Eerdmans provides detailed guidelines outlining their interests, which include biographies, STEAM topics, and stories addressing social-emotional learning. They also clearly state what they are not looking for, such as genre-heavy horror or YA, which helps authors determine if their project is a good fit before submitting. Their explicit rejection of AI-generated material also signals a commitment to human creativity.
Submission Insights & Key Details
Eerdmans uses an email-based submission system, which is convenient for authors, but their highly selective process means that only a small fraction of unsolicited manuscripts are acquired. If you do not receive a response within four months, it is safe to assume they have passed on your project. They maintain separate submission channels for authors and illustrators, ensuring each is reviewed by the appropriate team.
- Submission Method: Email only.
- Response Time: No response after four months indicates a pass.
- What to Send: Full manuscript for picture books; a query letter and first three chapters for middle grade or nonfiction.
- Pro Tip: Pay close attention to their topical wish lists. Aligning your manuscript with their stated interests in areas like social issues or faith-based narratives will significantly increase your chances of consideration.
- Website: https://www.eerdmans.com/youngreaders/submission-guidelines/
8. Quarto Group
The Quarto Group is a global publisher renowned for its beautifully illustrated nonfiction books, and their children's division is a major force in the market. What makes them an accessible option for writers is their clear, open channel for unagented submissions, specifically for their Kids & Teens imprints. They are particularly interested in unique, concept-driven illustrated books and nonfiction series.
This publisher is an ideal target for authors and illustrators whose ideas are highly visual or educational. Quarto excels in producing board books, activity books, and informational texts that engage young readers through compelling design and content. Their detailed submission guidelines provide a valuable checklist, ensuring creators include all the necessary components, such as market analysis and sample content, to make a strong first impression.
Submission Insights & Key Details
Quarto’s process is proposal-focused, meaning a well-researched and comprehensive pitch is more critical than a finished manuscript. They offer dedicated email addresses for their children's divisions, which helps direct your submission to the right editors. While they do accept submissions, their response is not guaranteed unless there is interest.
- Submission Method: Email proposal to the relevant children’s editorial department.
- Response Time: Varies significantly; no response generally means a pass.
- What to Send: A detailed book proposal that includes an overview, competitive analysis, target audience, author bio, and sample spreads or text.
- Pro Tip: Frame your idea as a marketable concept. Highlight how it fits into their existing catalog while offering something fresh and commercially viable.
- Website: https://www.quarto.com/staticpages/getintouch/submissionguidelines.aspx
9. Children’s Book Council (CBC)
The Children’s Book Council (CBC) is not a publisher itself, but rather the essential trade association for U.S. children’s book publishers. Its online member directory is an invaluable, free-to-use research tool for authors, offering a comprehensive and vetted list of hundreds of member presses. What makes it a critical resource is its function as a high-level aggregator, helping writers identify legitimate publishers accepting children's book submissions.
This directory is an excellent starting point for building a targeted submission list. Users can filter publishers by their submission status (open or closed to unsolicited manuscripts), genre, and target age range. While the CBC provides direct links to each publisher's guidelines, it’s a directory, not a submission platform, so authors must still visit individual sites to get the most current details. Its authority within the industry makes it a trusted first stop for navigating the publishing landscape.
Submission Insights & Key Details
Using the CBC directory requires an extra step of verification, as a publisher's status can change quickly. Always click through to the publisher's official website to confirm their policies before sending anything. Think of the CBC as your map, not the final destination.
- Submission Method: Varies by publisher; the CBC links you to their individual guidelines.
- Response Time: Not applicable, as the CBC does not handle submissions directly.
- What to Send: Dependent on the specific publisher you find through the directory.
- Pro Tip: Use the filter for "Accepts unsolicited submissions" to quickly narrow down potential matches, but double-check each publisher’s site as this information can become outdated.
- Website: https://www.cbcbooks.org/publishers/our-members/
10. Reedsy
Reedsy isn't a publisher itself, but rather an indispensable tool for authors searching for one. It provides a curated, filterable database of publishers, which makes it a powerful starting point for your submission journey. What makes this platform exceptional is its simple toggle feature that instantly shows you which publishers are actively accepting submissions, saving you countless hours of research.
This free resource is ideal for writers who want to efficiently identify potential homes for their work, especially among mid-size and independent presses. The platform allows you to filter by genre and age category, and each listing includes a direct link to the publisher's submission guidelines. While not exhaustive, it's one of the best ways to find currently open publishers accepting children's book submissions. If you're exploring the landscape of new author opportunities, you can learn more about finding the best publishers for new authors and how tools like Reedsy can help.
Submission Insights & Key Details
Using Reedsy is straightforward: filter your search, identify a promising publisher, and click through to their official site to submit directly. Always cross-reference the information on the publisher's own website, as submission windows can change quickly and smaller presses may have slight lags in updating their status on third-party platforms.
- Submission Method: Varies by publisher; Reedsy provides a direct link to their guidelines.
- Response Time: Varies by publisher.
- What to Send: Varies by publisher; always check their specific requirements.
- Pro Tip: Use the "accepts submissions" filter as your first step to create a targeted, actionable list of publishers to research further.
- Website: https://blog.reedsy.com/publishers/childrens/?accepts_submissions=true
11. Submittable Discover
Submittable Discover isn't a publisher itself, but rather an essential free marketplace where hundreds of literary journals, independent presses, and even major publishers post their active submission calls. This platform is a game-changer for authors, providing a centralized, searchable database of current opportunities. It allows writers to find publishers accepting children's book submissions who might otherwise be difficult to discover, especially those with narrow, temporary reading windows.
The platform’s strength lies in its powerful filtering tools. Authors can quickly narrow searches by genre, such as "picture book" or "middle grade," and more importantly, filter for "no fee" opportunities to avoid submission costs. For writers serious about getting published, creating a free account to regularly monitor new listings is a highly effective strategy to catch openings at a variety of presses and contests.
Submission Insights & Key Details
Using Submittable streamlines the entire submission process, from finding an opportunity to tracking its status. Once you submit through the platform, your work is logged in your personal dashboard, so you always know where your manuscript is and when you sent it. The interface is clean and user-friendly, simplifying what can often be a complicated endeavor.
- Submission Method: Varies by publisher; all submissions are made directly through the platform.
- Response Time: Set by each individual publisher listed on the site.
- What to Send: Follow the specific guidelines detailed in each submission call.
- Pro Tip: Use the "Deadline" and "No Fee" filters to efficiently find relevant, cost-free opportunities for your children's manuscript.
- Website: https://discover.submittable.com/
12. Duotrope
Duotrope isn't a publisher itself, but rather an invaluable, subscription-based search engine and submission tracker for writers. It functions as a comprehensive, constantly updated database that helps authors find publishers accepting children's book submissions, including those for picture books, middle grade, and YA. Its powerful filters allow you to quickly identify markets that are currently open and match your genre, saving you countless hours of manual research.
For a small monthly fee ($5/month or $50/year after a free trial), the platform provides access to data-driven insights you won't find elsewhere, such as average response times, acceptance rates, and pay scales. The integrated submission tracker is a standout feature, helping you manage where and when you've sent your work, preventing duplicate submissions, and keeping your publishing efforts organized. It’s an essential tool for any author serious about streamlining their submission process.
Submission Insights & Key Details
Duotrope helps you find and manage submissions, but you still submit directly to each publisher according to their individual guidelines. The platform’s strength lies in aggregating information and providing strategic tools to improve your odds. It helps you prioritize publishers that are more likely to respond or accept work similar to yours.
- Submission Method: A tool to find publishers; you submit to the publisher directly.
- Response Time: Provides user-reported data on average response times for listed publishers.
- What to Send: Use its database to find publisher guidelines on what to send.
- Pro Tip: Use the "Deadline" and "Response Statistics" filters to find markets that are not only open but also respond relatively quickly.
- Website: https://duotrope.com/
Publishers Accepting Childrens Book Submissions: Comparison Guide
| Publisher | Core Features / Focus | User Experience / Quality | Value Proposition | Target Audience | Unique Selling Points | Price / Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏆 Number 6 Publishing | Diverse MG & YA from underdog authors ✨ | Emotional, honest stories ★★★★☆ | Affordable, curated guides 💰 | 👥 Ages 8-14 readers | Champion of overlooked voices ✨ | $14.95–$20.95 per book 💰 |
| Chronicle Books | Unagented submissions, picture to YA formats | Design-forward, detailed reviews ★★★☆☆ | Strong distribution, innovation 💰 | 👥 All ages children | Accepts novelty formats ✨ | Free submissions |
| Holiday House | Picture to YA, no AI content | Award-winning titles ★★★★☆ | Transparent, reputable 💰 | 👥 Children & YA | Anti-scam guidance | Free submissions |
| Albert Whitman & Company | Picture to YA, simultaneous submissions allowed | Clear guidelines, ★★★☆☆ | Full manuscripts accepted 💰 | 👥 Children & YA | Text/art separate review | Free submissions |
| Page Street Publishing | Picture & YA, visually driven focus | Quick ~2-3 month responses ★★★☆☆ | Strong trade distribution 💰 | 👥 Picture & YA readers | Genre-diverse, open submissions | Free submissions |
| Tilbury House | Picture, early readers, middle grade; STEAM focus | Socially relevant themes ★★★☆☆ | Clear steps for unagented authors 💰 | 👥 Socially conscious | Focus on STEAM & diversity ✨ | Free submissions |
| Eerdmans Books for Young Readers | Picture & select novels, no YA | Clear topical focus ★★★☆☆ | Stable, selective output 💰 | 👥 Children only | STEAM & social issues focus | Free submissions |
| Quarto Group | Nonfiction & illustrated, multiple imprints | Proposal-driven, varied responses ★★☆☆☆ | Broad market reach 💰 | 👥 Kids & Teens | Global publisher with imprints | Free submissions |
| Children’s Book Council (CBC) | Publisher directory, many member publishers | Authoritative resource ★★★★☆ | Up-to-date submission info 💰 | 👥 Authors & educators | Filterable, no login needed | Free access |
| Reedsy | Filterable publisher list, open submission toggle | Easy navigation ★★★☆☆ | Quick discovery tool 💰 | 👥 Authors seeking fit | One-click guideline links | Free access |
| Submittable Discover | Marketplace for submission calls | Centralized submissions ★★★☆☆ | Efficient call tracking 💰 | 👥 Active submitters | Deadline & fee filters | Free account required |
| Duotrope | Subscription submission tracker & database | Detailed data & tools ★★★★☆ | Saves research time 💰 | 👥 Authors & editors | Editorial insights, tracking | $5/month or $50/year |
Your Next Steps on the Path to Publication
You now have a comprehensive, strategic guide to navigate the world of children's book publishing. This list provides a crucial launchpad, featuring a mix of traditional houses like Chronicle Books and Holiday House, alongside agile independents such as Page Street Publishing and Tilbury House. More importantly, you're equipped with powerful discovery tools like Submittable Discover and Duotrope to uncover even more opportunities.
Remember, the goal isn't just to find any publisher; it's to find the right partner for your unique story. The key takeaway is that a targeted, professional approach will always yield better results than a scattered one.
From List to Submission: Your Action Plan
Transforming this knowledge into action is your next critical step. Before you send a single query, focus on refining your manuscript and your process. A polished submission that adheres perfectly to guidelines demonstrates your professionalism and respect for a publisher’s time.
Here are a few actionable steps to take right now:
- Create a Shortlist: From this list, select your top 3-5 publishers. Dive deeper into their backlists. Do they publish books with a similar tone, theme, or art style to yours? Does your manuscript genuinely feel like a fit for their catalog?
- Perfect Your Pitch: Your query letter is your first impression. Tailor it specifically for each publisher, referencing books they’ve published that you admire. This shows you’ve done your homework.
- Refine Your Manuscript: The submission process is a marathon, not a sprint. Take the time to get feedback from a critique group or a trusted beta reader. As you edit, consider tools that can improve your workflow. For instance, you might find valuable insights into the best dictation software for writers to help capture ideas faster or ease the physical strain of typing.
- Stay Organized: Use a spreadsheet to track your submissions. Note the date you sent your query, the publisher, their response time, and any feedback you receive. This will keep you organized and help you avoid duplicate submissions.
The Mindset for Success
Finding publishers accepting children's book submissions is only the beginning. The journey to publication is paved with persistence. Rejection is a standard, unavoidable part of this industry; it is not a reflection of your story's worth. Each "no" is simply a data point guiding you closer to the right "yes".
View every submission as a learning opportunity. Celebrate the small wins, like a personalized rejection letter or a request for a full manuscript. Stay connected with the writing community, keep honing your craft, and most importantly, continue to believe in the story you want to share with young readers. You have the tools and the talent. Now, it's time to take that courageous next step.
Ready to submit to a publisher that champions unique voices and heartfelt stories? Number 6 Publishing is actively seeking diverse and imaginative middle-grade and YA manuscripts. Explore our submission guidelines and discover if we’re the perfect home for your book at Number 6 Publishing.