Publishers

Barefoot BooksGuidelines.
We are a small, independent publishing company that publishes high-quality picture books for children of all ages and specializes in the work of artists and writers from many cultures. We focus on themes that support independence of spirit, encourage openness to others, and foster a life-long love of learning.

We are accepting unsolicited manuscripts, but because Barefoot publishes for such a niche market, we have to be very selective in the types of books we accept for publication. We publish picture books and anthologies of folktales (no novels or chapter books). We do not publish nonfiction or historical fiction, and our books are not centered in contemporary American society. Our picture books usually have a fairy-tale or folk-tale quality about them, though we are not actively looking for folktales or fairy tales for picture books. Rather, we are looking for original stories that have a whimsical, imaginative, or fanciful feeling to them. We also specialize in publishing cross-cultural books that reflect storytelling and artistic traditions of cultures all over the world.

If you feel that your picture book submission fits into this description, please send it to:

Alison Keehn
Barefoot Books
3 Bow Street, 3rd Floor
Cambridge, MA 02138

If you would like to send art samples along with your manuscript, please make sure they are color-copies only. Also make sure to include a self-addressed stamped envelope if you would like your manuscript returned to you.

If you wish to submit an anthology or a collection of folk-tales, please submit a query letter with one sample story to the above address. All of our folktale anthologies are centered around one unifying theme, and usually contain 7 - 8 stories from cultures all over the world.

We do accept simultaneous submissions, but we would prefer to receive only one of your manuscripts at a time. We will make every attempt to respond to you about it within 3 months after receiving it.

If you would like to receive a copy of our latest catalog, please send a self addressed 9 x 12 envelope stamped with $1.03 worth of postage. We would be happy to send it to you.

Once again, thank you. I wish you much joy and success on your creative journey.

Sincerely,
Alison E. Keehn
Associate Editor

Bloomsbury Magazine Group

Each year, thousands of typescripts are submitted to publishers by hopeful authors but only a small portion are accepted for publication. Some are needlessly rejected either because they were sent to the wrong publisher, or because the publisher’s submission procedure was not followed.

First, and most importantly, choose the right publisher. It is a waste of time and money to send the typescript of a novel to a publisher who publishes no fiction, or poetry to one who publishes no verse. By studying the entries in the Writers’ and Artists' Yearbook, A&C Black, 2001, examining publishers’ lists of publications, or by looking for the names of suitable publishers in the relevant sections in libraries and bookshops, you will find the names of several publishers which might be interested in seeing your material.

Secondly, approach the publisher in the way they prefer. Many publishers will not accept unsolicited material — you must enquire first if they would be willing to read the whole work. A few publishers are prepared to speak on the telephone, allowing you to describe, briefly, the work on offer. Most prefer a preliminary letter; and many publishers, particularly of fiction, will only see material submitted through a literary agent. It has to be said that some publishing houses, the larger ones in particular, may well employ all three methods.

Enclose a synopsis of the work, and two or three sample chapters, with your preliminary letter, plus return postage (International Reply Coupons if you are writing from outside the country or if you are submitting material from the UK to the Irish Republic). Writers have been known to send out such letters in duplicated form, an approach unlikely to stimulate a publisher’s interest. Remember, also, that whilst every reasonable care will be taken of material in the publishers’ possession, responsibility cannot be accepted if material is lost or damaged. Never send your only copy of the typescript. For more information, see Submitting a typescript.

Interested in submitting a manuscript to Bloomsbury Publishing Plc or to Bloomsburymagazine? Click here to view our submission guidelines.

Extract: The Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbook, A&C Black, 2001

A well—presented typescript will make a good impression on the publisher's reader. Michael Legat gives guidelines on how best to present your typsecript.

A well—presented typescript (sometimes still called a manuscript) or printout is not only easier for the publisher to read, but indicates a professional attitude on the part of the author. Most material for potential publication is nowadays produced on a word processor, but work produced on a typewriter is entirely acceptable. On the other hand, most publishers refuse even to consider handwritten typescripts and no publisher will accept them as final copy.

Presentation

A neat typescript is essential not only to make a good impression but also for the publisher's copy editor to work on. Keep your corrections to the typescript to a minimum, and retype any pages which look messy.

Margins of at least 3cm on all sides (left, right, top and bottom) are essential to accommodate editorial amendments and instructions from the copy editor or designer to the typesetter. Use the same margins throughout, so that the type on each page is of the same width and so that, except at the beginning and end of chapters, there will be the same number of lines on each page. Chapters should always begin on a new page. If you use a word processor, do not use its facility for justifying the type on the right hand side— justify on the left side only.

Lay out the text in double spacing, i.e. a full line of space between two lines of copy. This will allow room for any last minute changes you may want to make and for the copy editor's amendments. Indent the first line of each paragraph a few spaces and do not leave a blank line between paragraphs unless you want to indicate a change of subject, scene, time or viewpoint. Be as consistent as possible in your choice of variant spellings, capitalisation, use of sub—headings, etc. For example, use either -ise or -ize suffixes consistently throughout.

Number the pages (or 'folios', as publishers prefer to call them) straight through from beginning to end — don't start each chapter at folio 1. If you need to include an extra folio after, say, folio 27, call it folio 27a and write at the foot of folio 27: 'Folio 27a follows'. Then write at the foot of folio 27a: 'Folio 28 follows'. Don't do this too often or you will confuse and irritate your readers.

Create a front page (unnumbered) for your typescript. Type the title of the book about halfway down the page, with your name (or pen name) immediately beneath. Type your name and address in the bottom left hand corner. It is worth including your name and address on the last folio too, in case the first folio becomes detached.

Produce your finished material on standard A4 paper whether you use a typewriter or word processor and linked printer (in the latter case do not use continuous listing paper), and use one side of the paper only.

Fastening the typescript together

Publishers prefer to handle each folio separately, so do not use a binder which will make this impossible; ring binders are just about acceptable, but it is best to place the typescript in a cardboard envelope folder which will obviate the need for pins (which scratch), paperclips (which pick up other papers from a busy editor's desk) or staples (which make it awkward to read the typescript). Do not use plastic folders, as they tend to slip when placed in a pile, and both editors and agents keep typescripts piled on their desks.

Word count

The length of the book is referred to by publishers as the 'extent'. You will need to know the approximate number of words in your book when you send out letters asking if you may submit it for a publisher's consideration. It is not essential to indicate the word count on the typescript but there is no harm in adding the information on the first folio. Use the word count facility on your word processor or simply count the number of words on a few full pages to get an average and multiply the figure by the number of pages in the typescript.

You will save time and postage if you check first that you are sending your typescript to a publisher who will consider it. Publishers specialise — it is no use sending your romantic novel to a firm which publishes fiction but only of the most high brow, 'literary' genre, and even less use to send it to a firm which publishes no fiction at all.

By studying the Writers' and Artists' Yearbook, A&C Black, 2001, examining publishers' lists of publications, or by looking in the relevant sections of libraries and bookshops, you will find the names of publishers who might be interested in seeing your work, including the paperback houses; remember though, that paperback publishers are often linked to a hardcover firm, and you should submit your material to one or the other of them, but not both, because they work closely together.

It is important to make the right approach to a publisher. Many publishers will not accept unsolicited material, and others are willing to consider submissions only from an agent (see listing of literary agents), and these conditions are usually indicated in their entries in the Yearbook. It is wise in all cases to enquire first, by letter, whether the publisher would be willing to read your material. There is no point whatsoever in asking for an interview — the publisher will not want to talk to you about the book before reading it.

The preliminary letter

This will save you time, money and possible frustration. Most publishers prefer to see a brief, businesslike preliminary letter together with a synopsis of the book and the first couple of chapters. From this the publisher can judge whether the book will fit the list, in which case you will be asked to send the complete typescript either immediately or when it is completed. This procedure is especially advisable for non-fiction — most non-fiction books are commissioned as the result of an initial submission in the form of a synopsis and specimen chapters.

It is permissible to send your material simultaneously to more than one publisher, provided that you inform each publisher that the book is being considered elsewhere at the same time.

Always enclose return postage, whether for a letter or the typescript itself. Remember too that while publishers take every reasonable care of material, they will not accept responsibility for loss or damage while it is in their possession, so it is essential always to keep a copy of your typescript, with all the changes to the text incorporated in it.

Waiting for a decision

There is usually a considerable interval between submissions and the publisher's decision. Most publishers acknowledge receipt of typescripts; if you do not receive one, it is advisable to check that the material has arrived. Apart from that, it is not worth chasing the publisher for a quick decision, which is unlikely to speed up the process, unless your book is of a topical nature.

You should hear from the publisher within about two months. During this time the typescript will have been read 'in house' or sent to one or more advisers whose opinions the publisher respects. Favourable readers' reports may mean that the publisher will immediately accept the typescript (although probably not before consulting the production, sales, subsidiary rights and other departments), especially if it fits into the current publishing programme and if it is clearly saleable. On the other hand, a publisher may hesitate despite glowing reports, and seek further opinions and explore various options before reaching a final decision. Publishers want to be sure that they will be able to sell their wares profitably, and if they are doubtful of recouping the money they will have to invest in the book, it will be rejected despite the readers' enthusiasm.

If you have not had a decision after two months, write either a tactful letter saying 'I don't want to rush you but …' or, alternatively, request an immediate decision and be prepared to start again with another publisher.

If your book is rejected, although some publishers may give you their reasons for turning it down, most will not, nor in either case should you expect to be able to discuss the matter further, unless specifically invited to do so. Publishers do not have the time to spend on books and authors which they are not going to publish. If, in the course of rejection, the publisher should be complimentary about your work, you can take the remarks at face value — publishers do not encourage rejected authors unless they mean it.

Illustrations

If illustrations form a large part of your proposed book and you expect to provide them yourself, then they should be included with the typescript. If sending specimen chapters, then you should also include sample illustrations. Do not send originals — duplicate photographs, photocopies of line drawings and so on will ensure that little harm is done if illustrations go astray.

In the case of a children's book which you intend to illustrate yourself, obviously one finished piece of artwork is essential, plus photocopies of roughs for the rest. A complete set of artwork is not necessary, as the publisher will ultimately decide on the number of illustrations to be used, and their sizes, which may not be in accordance with your original plan. If you have written a children's story, or the text for a picture book, do not ask a friend to supply the illustrations; the publisher who likes your story may not admire your friend's artwork, and will prefer to find and commission a different artist. In cases where an artist and author work closely together to develop an idea it is best to start by finding a publisher who likes the artist's work before submitting the story.

Travel typescripts should be accompanied by a sketch map to show the area you are writing about, with sufficient detail with which to follow the account.

If the illustrations are not your own artwork or photographs, it is best to establish early on who is responsible for the illustration costs; a seemingly generous advance against royalties might be less attractive if you have to gather the pictures, obtain permission for their use, and foot the bills.

Quotations

It is normally the author's responsibility to obtain and pay for permission to quote written material which is in copyright. Permission should always be sought from the publisher of the quoted work, not from the author. There are no standard fees for quotation: for fashionable modern writers and for the lyrics of popular songs permission may be very costly, but in other cases only a nominal fee is charged. It is permissible to quote a short extract (up to 400 words, or up to 40 lines of a poem, but not more than one quarter of the poem) under a convention known as 'fair dealing', but only for purposes of criticism or review. Fair dealing does not apply to use in anthologies. The source of any quotation must always be fully acknowledged. Although this is your area of responsibility, you should ask your publisher for advice before embarking on the clearance of permissions for any copyright material, including illustrations.

Proofs

When the publisher accepts your typescript, if you have used a word processor you will probably be asked to supply a copy on disk. The files containing the work should be unformatted plain text — doing a fancy layout will be a waste of time, as it will be unformatted by the publisher or typesetter. Having the book on disk will save time in production, as well as cutting down the margin for errors creeping into the text.

As the author you should see the finalised copy of the typescript before it goes to the typesetter. This is really your last chance to pick up any typing errors which have previously been missed, to make any other changes, and to approve of or challenge any amendments made by the publisher's copy editor. This applies also to highly illustrated books, such as children's or 'coffee table' books, on which the designer and editor will have worked in tandem to marry the text and the pictures on each page, sometimes modifying the text to produce a satisfactory end result.

After seeing the finalised copy, you may be sent either a computer printout which has had all the last minute amendments incorporated, or galley proofs or page proofs. The printout will bear no resemblance to the finished book, but will contain everything that will appear in that book; galley proofs, produced by the typesetter, are columns of continuous text; page proofs have been made up into pages, including page numbers, headlines, illustrations, and so on.

Corrections can be made at any of the stages but it is a costly business. You will probably have signed a contract undertaking to pay the cost of your own corrections over, say, 10—15 per cent of the cost of composition. This does not mean that you can change 10 or 15 lines in every hundred, but you are entitled of course to correct any errors made by the printer or typesetter.

Interested in submitting a manuscript to Bloomsbury Publishing Plc or to Bloomsburymagazine? Click here to view our submission guidelines.

Extract: The Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbook, A&C Black, 2001

If you would like to buy this book, click here to go to the bookshop.

With an average list of eighty titles each year, international in scope and with plenty of award-winning novelists to boast about, Bloomsbury’s Editor, Rosemary Davidson explains why she is still eager to find new voices …

Bloomsbury publishes on average eighty original titles each year, roughly half fiction and half non-fiction. Launched six years ago, Bloomsbury Paperbacks publish approximately one hundred titles per year.

The Bloomsbury fiction list is international in its range — in 2001 for example, alongside home-grown British and Irish writers, we will publish novelists from India, South Africa, Australia, Mexico, Canada, the Lebanon, Argentina, Germany, Israel, America and Brazil.

Bloomsbury’s novelists include the award-winning and bestselling John Irving, Joanna Trollope, Nadine Gordimer, Margaret Atwood, Michael Ondaatje, Anne Michaels, Rupert Thomson, Will Self and David Guterson. Bloomsbury has always had a strong reputation for its ability to encourage and nurture new talent in both fiction and non-fiction, and in 2001 will publish seven novels by first time writers.

The non-fiction list is wide ranging and includes biography, autobiography, history, natural history, popular science, popular culture, film, pop, sport, travel, cookery, psychology and memoir. Recent successes include Judith Thurman’s outstanding biography of Colette, Peter Robb’s controversial biography of Caravaggio M, Peter Biskind’s bestselling Easy Riders and Raging Bulls and William Shawcross’s acclaimed analysis of the problems of international peace-keeping, Deliver Us from Evil.

We are always eager to find new voices, both in fiction and non-fiction. Click here for full information on submitting your work directly to Bloomsbury. Alternatively, we recommend that you send work to be considered via a literary agent. (for a list of UK agents, click here or see The Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbook, available in our bookshop)

Please be advised that Bloomsbury Children's Department are not currently accepting unsolicited submissions.

Alternatively, we recommend that you send work to be considered via a literary agent. For a list of UK agents, click here or see The Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbook, available in our bookshop.

Writer’s Guidelines

We accept submissions for both Bloomsbury publishing and for our on-line literary magazine. You will find the separate guidelines for both below. These guidelines are subject to change without notice.

Publishing submissions

Please be aware that due to the enormous volume of works sent in to our Children's department, Bloomsbury are unfortunately no longer accepting unsolicited children's manuscripts.

Work submitted for the consideration of Bloomsbury Publishing should be sent by mail only. We require a synopsis of the work and two sample chapters. If you wish your manuscript to be returned, then please enclose a stamped self-addressed envelope with sufficient postage. Please send your manuscript to:

 The Commissioning Editor

Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

38 Soho Square

London W1D 3HB

England 

All manuscripts are read by Bloomsbury’s editors and every effort is made to respond to submissions within one month of receipt, though periodic backlog can result in delays to response times. We regret that the quantity Bloomsbury receives prevents us from entering into correspondence concerning individual submissions.

Please be advised that it is extremely rare for an unsolicited manuscript to be published.

On-line magazine submissions

We publish fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. We suggest you look at an example of Bloomsburymagazine to see what we are looking for. With few exceptions, we publish only work that has not been published previously. Because Bloomsburymagazine is monthly and international in scope, the content of any article feature should be broader than the specific event it purports to cover.

Please submit only one article or story at a time and please include a brief covering letter. The submission must contain your name, address, and a telephone number. You should also include a brief biography.

Bloomsburymagazine only accept submissions for the website magazine via e-mail at csm@bloomsbury.com, not via mail or fax and please do not use any special mailing services. The submission should be sent as an MS Word attachment.

We pay writers after edits have been completed to our satisfaction and just prior to publication of the final piece. Authors proof-read their own work.

In general, we buy non-exclusive electronic rights and exclusive world print anthology rights. Payment varies according to the length and genre of the submission.

All manuscripts are carefully considered. Due to the large number of submissions, we regret that we can't comment on every manuscript. We aim to get back to you within one month of the receipt of the submission. Receipt of a submission of an article does not guarantee publication.

CHARLESBRIDGE PUBLISHING, INC.
85 Main Street
Watertown, MA 02472
617-926-0329
Mary Ann Sabia, Vice President & Associate Publisher
Age: Preschool-Elementary
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Board Books & Picture Books
Publishes 26 hardcover and paperback titles annually.
Lines and Special Series include:
WHISPERING COYOTE, AGES 0-9
TALEWINDS, AGES 2-9
Currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts. Must be exclusive submission.

CLARION BOOKS
215 Park Avenue South
New York, NY 10003
212-420-5889
Dinah Stevenson, Vice President & Associate Publisher
Marjorie Naughton, Marketing Manager
Age: Preschool-Young Adult
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 50 hardcover titles annually. Paperbacks and board books published only from backlist titles.
Currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts. Query letter and sample acceptable for novels and nonfiction.

Clarion Books:
Clarion Books publishes picture books, nonfiction, and fiction for infants through children in grade 12. Our imprint issues about fifty new hardcover titles each year.

In the picture books area, the editors are looking for active picture book stories with a beginning, middle, and end — stories that deal fully and honestly with children's emotions. You do not need to provide illustrations or find an illustrator; if your manuscript is accepted, the publisher will handle this. If you wish to submit illustrations, send only photocopies. We cannot be responsible for original art. Avoid telling your stories in verse unless you are a professional poet. No query letter is necessary for picture book manuscripts and/or dummies.

In the nonfiction area, the editors are interested in hearing about social studies, science, concept, wordplay, holiday, historical, and biography ideas for all age levels. Send a query letter or proposal with a sample chapter(s) on all nonfiction projects.

In the fiction area, the editors are seeking lively stories for ages eight through twelve and ages ten through fourteen. They are also looking for transitional chapter books (12 to 20 manuscript pages) for ages six through nine and for short novels of 40 to 80 manuscript pages suitable for ages seven through ten. Clarion is highly selective in the areas of historical fiction, fantasy, and science fiction. A novel must be superlatively written in order to find a place on the list. The editors prefer to see complete manuscripts.

We cannot review submissions on computer disk and will not consider queries or submissions that arrive by fax. We also cannot review manuscripts or queries posted on the Internet or respond by e-mail.

Clarion has a policy against accepting manuscripts from young people. Most writers are happy that their early stories were not published, even though some of them were quite good, because in later years their writing improved and they could make their early work even better. The years they spent writing simply because they liked to do it gave them time to develop the skills they needed to tell their stories in the very best way possible, and it shows in the high quality later on.

Address all submissions to:

Clarion Books
A Houghton Mifflin Company imprint
215 Park Avenue South
New York, NY 10003
Attention: Editorial Department

Please enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope of adequate size for returning material, or indicate that the manuscript need not be returned. Please make sure the postage adheres to the SASE to prevent its loss during handling. Never send your ONLY copy of a manuscript. Manuscripts that arrive without an SASE of adequate size will not be responded to or returned.

Clarion Books Art:
Until further notice, the Clarion Books Art Department will not accept unsolicited art samples.

Children's Books:
This information can also be heard at 617-351-5959.

The Children's Book Division will read unsolicited manuscripts. Please send them to us by conventional mail only. We do not accept e-mailed or faxed manuscripts. As confirmation postcards are easily separated or hidden, we do not encourage you to include them with your submission.

We prefer a typed (letter-quality), double-spaced manuscript on unfolded plain white paper in a 9 x 12 envelope. We do not accept manuscripts that are handwritten or submitted on computer disk. You do not have to furnish illustrations, but if you wish, a few comprehensive sketches or duplicate copies of original art will suffice. For fiction we prefer to see the entire manuscript, and for nonfiction, a synopsis and sample chapters.

Please keep a copy of the manuscript for your files and enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope that we can use to reply. Manuscripts and art samples will only be returned if you provide an appropriate envelope and sufficient postage. Because of the volume of submissions we receive each day, submissions are virtually impossible to track, and it may take up to twelve weeks before we reach a decision.

*When submitting to any publishing house, it is always a good idea to check your local bookstore or library to get a sense of what kinds of books they publish.

Please send your submission(s) to:

Submissions
Houghton Mifflin Children's Books
222 Berkeley Street
Boston, MA 02116-3764

CRICKET BOOKS
(A division of Carus Publishing)
332 S. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1100
Chicago, IL 60604
312-939-1500
Marc Aronson , Publisher
Marianne Carus, Editor in Chief
Age: Preschool-Young Adult
Genre: Fiction & nonfiction
Format: Novels
Publishes12 hardcover and paperback titles annually.
Lines & Special Series include:
MARCATO, AGES 11+
Currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts.

At this time, the editors at Cricket Books and Marcato Books are primarily interested in chapter books, middle-grade fiction, and young adult novels, as well as exceptional nonfiction for all ages, but will also consider picture books.

The Marcato Books imprint reflects the eclectic taste of Marc Aronson; the best indicator of that is books he published at Holt, many under the Edge imprint.

• Manuscripts should be typed double-spaced. All manuscripts should be submitted initially on hard copy, not on disk. (We will ask for a disk only if we decide to publish your work.) Please number the pages.
• Make sure to keep a copy of your submission—publishers make every effort to safeguard a manuscript, but they cannot be held responsible in the event of its loss.
• Include a cover letter containing any pertinent information about yourself, your writing, your manuscript.
• Be sure that your name and address are on the manuscript as well as on the cover letter.
• Always include the right-sized, self-addressed, stamped envelope for the return of your material. Clearly indicate the mail class by which you would like your manuscript returned. If you do not include postage, we will assume that you do not want your manuscript returned. If you would like confirmation of the receipt of your submission, include a self-addressed, stamped postcard.
• If you are a professional artist and want to be considered to illustrate a manuscript you are submitting, please send only two or three samples. Photocopies are fine. Do not send original artwork.
• Writers often ask about word limits, but in this regard, the author must be the judge. The length of a story depends partly on the age of the reader for whom it is intended and partly on the natural progression of the story itself.
• We will respond to submissions within four months of receipt. Please do not expect an editor to give specific comments regarding your manuscript. Unfortunately, we receive far too many manuscripts for this to be possible.

Send manuscripts to:
Submissions Editor
Cricket Books
Carus Publishing Company
332 South Michigan Avenue, Suite 1100
Chicago, IL 60604.

DIAL BFYR
(An imprint of Penguin Putnam BFYR)
345 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
212-414-3414
Lauri Hornik, Editorial Director
Lily Malcom , Art Director
Age: Preschool-Young Adult
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Board Books, Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 50 hardcover titles annually.
Send query letter before submitting unsolicited picture book or novel manuscripts.

DUTTON CHILDREN'S BOOKS
(An imprint of Penguin Putnam BFYR)
345 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
212-366-2000
Stephanie Owens Lurie, President & Publisher
Gina Maolucci, Executive Director of Marketing
Age: Preschool-Young Adult
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Board Books, Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 110 hardcover titles annually.
Lines and Special Series include:
DUTTON EASY READERS, AGES 5-7
Send query letter before submitting unsolicited picture book or novel manuscripts.

EERDMAN'S BFYR
(An imprint of Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company)
255 Jefferson SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
616-459-4591
Judy Zylstra, Editor-in-Chief
Sally Bulthuis, Sales & Marketing Director
Age: Preschool-Young Adult
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 16-20 hardcover and paperback titles annually.
Currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts. Send query letter before submitting unsolicited novel manuscripts.

FARRAR, STRAUS, & GIROUX, INC. BFYR
19 Union Square West
New York, NY 10003
212-741-6900
Margaret Ferguson, Vice President, Co-Publisher & Editorial Director
Michael Eisenberg, Vice President, Co-Publisher & Director of Marketing
Age: Preschool-Young Adult
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Board Books, Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 55-60 hardcover, paperback, and e-book titles annually.
Lines and Special Series include:
FRANCES FOSTER BOOKS, AGES 4+
MELANIE KROUPA BOOKS, AGES 4+
SUNBURST PAPERBACKS, AGES 4-12
AERIAL FICTION, AGES 4-12
MIRASOL/LIBROS JUVENILES, AGES 4-12
Currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts. Send complete picture book text with unsolicited picture book manuscripts. Send query letter before submitting unsolicited novel manuscripts.

FRONT STREET BOOKS
20 Battery Park Avenue, Suite 403
Asheville, NC 28801
828-236-3097
Nancy Hogan Zimmerman, Associate Publisher
Age: Preschool-Young Adult
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Board Books, Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 12 hardcover titles annually.
Lines and Special Series include:
LEMNISCAAT, ALL AGES
Currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts for elementary, middle grade, and young adult books. Not accepting unsolicited picture book manuscripts at this time.

Front Street is willing to consider unsolicited manuscripts. It is our policy to consider all submissions in the order they are received. This is a time consuming practice and we ask you to be patient in awaiting our response. We understand the reasons for multiple submissions, although we discourage them. We feel it is important for you to know in advance that if our decision is negative, you will receive a form rejection letter. This procedure enables us to reduce the time it takes to respond to submissions, time we can devote to reviewing more submissions. Thank you for your interest in Front Street and for giving us the opportunity to consider your work.

Picture Books
We are not currently accepting unsolicited picture book manuscripts.

More Information for Artists

Fiction
If under 100 pages, submit the complete manuscript. If over 100 pages, submit one or two sample chapters, and a plot summary. We will request the balance of the manuscript if we are interested.

Poetry
Please send a selection of no more than 25 poems that are representative of your work. We will request more if we are interested.

Anthologies
We will only consider anthologies of work by various authors if accompanied by a detailed proposal and permissions budget.

Nonfiction
A detailed proposal and sample chapter will suffice.

Other
Whatever it takes to give us a sense of the project.

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Please enclose a dated cover letter so that we have your name and return address.

We are unable to return materials unless you provide us with a self-addressed, stamped envelope. If there is no SASE included, we will assume the materials can be discarded.

We are unable to return manuscripts to destinations outside of the US

Do not send submissions as e-mail attachments. Submissions sent in this manner will be automatically deleted from our computers.

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More questions?

Please send submissions to:

Joy Neaves, Editor
Front Street, Inc.
20 Battery Park Avenue
Asheville, NC 28801

e-mail a query letter

roxburgh@frontstreetbooks.com

<roxburgh@frontstreetbooks.com>

G.P. PUTNAM'S SONS
(An imprint of Penguin Putnam BFYR)
345 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
212-414-3610
Nancy Paulsen, President & Publisher
Kathryn Dawson, Executive Editor
Age: Preschool-Young Adult
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Board Books, Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 45 hardcover titles annually.
Currently accepting unsolicited picture book manuscripts. Send query letter and three chapters before submitting unsolicited novel manuscripts.

Groundwood Books

EDITORIAL GUIDELINES

Picture Books:

Due to the enormous number of submissions we receive, Groundwood Books/Douglas & McIntyre regrets we can no longer accept unsolicited manuscripts for picture books.

Novel-length Fiction:

We are always looking for new authors of novel-length fiction for children in all age areas. Our mandate is to publish high-quality, character-driven literary fiction. We do not generally publish stories with an obvious moral or message or genre fiction such as thrillers or mysteries. We do not publish high-interest/low-vocabularly fiction or stories with anthropomorphic animals or elves/fairies as their main characters.

Prospective submittors are encouraged to first visit a library or bookstore to familiarize themselves with the kinds of books we publish in order to judge their work's compatibility.

Submissions should be legibly typed and double-spaced. We do not accept faxed or electronic submissions.

It is preferable to submit several sample chapters and a brief synopsis rather than the entire manuscript.

Please submit no more than one manuscript at a time.

Manuscripts will not be returned unless we also receive a self-addressed envelope with sufficient return postage (stamps only; NO CHEQUES OR MONEY ORDERS). We cannot return manuscripts C.O.D. or courier collect.

We do not acknowledge receipt of manuscripts unless a self-addressed, stamped postcard for this purpose is included with the submission.

We accept multiple submissions as long as this is indicated on the manuscript.

Reporting time is two to four months. Questions regarding status of a submission after four months should be made in writing; please do not call. We regret that we cannot offer any editorial comment unless we feel the work has publishing potential.

ART GUIDELINES

Groundwood Books is looking for Canadian illustrators to interpret the words of some of Canada's finest children's writers. Our stress is on stories of real children in convincing situations and milieus, both contemporary and historical, for all ages from infants to teens. Art may be realistic or abstracted and stylized to any degree, but conventional cartoon and animation styles are not needed. Pure genre art (as seen in mass-market Romance, Horror or Science  Fiction) is of little interest, but technically accomplished art in these areas may be of interest for some literature which "crosses over" into genre themes. Accomplished drawing and execution in the final chosen medium are important, as is accurate and thorough subject and period research. In many cases the creation of real, individual characters is essential.

Nonfiction illustrators are also needed: scientific drawing in natural history and other fields, and historical reconstruction are among the areas we are interested in.

As well, we need cover artists for a wide range of fiction from early readers to young adult.

Samples

Send samples of your work only in the forms and up to the quantities specified:

4 to 10 black-and-white or color copies or digital colour proofs

4 to 10 tear sheets, press sheets, postcards

1 to 2 published, bound books or sets of folded and gathered sheets

4 to 20 35 mm slides in clear protective sleeve

4 to 10 larger format transparencies in clear protective sleeves

Any number of images on CD-ROM or floppy diskette

Do not send:

Original art or e-mailed files

Hand-bound books or other bulky submissions

Any material which you need returned.

Mail to:

Groundwood Books

Attention: Submissions

720 Bathurst Street, Suite 500

Toronto, ON M5S 2R4

HAMPTON ROADS PUBLISHING COMPANY
1125 Stoney Ridge Road
Charlottesville, VA 22902
804-296-2772
Grace Pedalino, Editor
Pat Adler, Associate Editor
Age: Elementary-Middle Grade
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Board Books, Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 5 hardcover, paperback, and e-book titles annually.
Lines and Special Series include:
YOUNG SPIRIT BOOKS, AGES 6-12
Currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts.

Submissions Guidelines

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thank you for your inquiry. Because we accept unsolicited work, multiple submissions, and work from unpublished authors, we ask that you send proposals only. Please include a synopsis, a chapter-by-chapter outline and one or two sample chapters. Please, typed or computer-printed, only; we cannot and will not read handwritten manuscripts, electronic, web-based or e-mail submissions.

Shorter titles for our Young Spirit Line may be sent whole, with artwork included.

We also welcome artwork submissions. We encourage you to send a small sample of your work, and encourage you to send copies, as we may keep artwork indefinitely if you do not specifically ask for its return.

Please enclose an SASE with sufficient postage if you wish to have your submission returned. Note that prepaid postage strips from your post office are only good for that location; our post office will not accept them for outgoing mail. If you do not enclose postage, we will recycle your proposal after we consider it.

Be sure that your cover letter contains your complete address (including phone number). Send proposals to the attention of :

Rebecca Williamson, Managing Editor

Hampton Roads Publishing Company

1125 Stoney Ridge Road,

Charlottesville, VA 22902

Send Young Spirit submissions to Patricia Adler, Young Spirit Associate Editor, at the same address.

As to subject matter, we concentrate on metaphysical and inspirational nonfiction, visionary fiction, and alternative medicine, but we occasionally reach into other areas. Query us. We publish no "genre" fiction such as science fiction, westerns, gothics, romances, horror, etc., and no poetry or collections of short stories. We look for Young Spirit books that will stimulate the intellect, teach valuable lessons in a metaphysical context, and allow our children's spirits to grow.

Finally, please be aware that we and all publishers have an enormous number of proposals to read and that it is not unusual for the process to take many months. Your patience is appreciated.

HJ KRAMER/NEW WORLD LIBRARY
14 Pamaron Way
Novato, CA 94949
415-884-2100
Monique Muhlenkamp, Marketing & Publicity Coordinator
Age: Preschool-Elementary
Genre: Fiction
Format: Picture Books
Publishes 2 hardcover and paperback titles annually.
Lines and Special Series include:
STARSEED PRESS, AGES 4-10
Currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts.

HOLIDAY HOUSE INC.
425 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10017
212-688-0085
Regina Griffin, Vice President & Editor-in-Chief
Kate Briggs, Vice President
Age: Preschool-Young Adult
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 65-70 hardcover and paperback titles annually.
Send query letter before submitting unsolicited picture book or novel manuscripts. No multiple submissions.

HOUGHTON MIFFLIN
222 Berkeley Street
Boston, MA 02116
617-351-5000
Walter Lorraine, Vice President & Publisher, Walter Lorraine Books
Kim Keller , Managing Editor
Age: Preschool-Young Adult
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Board Books, Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 100 hardcover and paperback titles annually.
Currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts.

ILLUMINATION ARTS PUBLISHING CO, INC.
P.O. Box 1865
Bellevue, WA 98009
425-644-7185
John Thompson, President
Ruth Thompson, Vice President
Age: Preschool-Elementary
Genre: Fiction
Format: Picture Books
Publishes 4 hardcover titles annually.
Currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts.

Submission Guidelines                                                                      

            GUIDELINES FOR MANUSCRIPTS & ART SUBMISSIONS

Mission Statement: Illumination Arts publishes high quality, enlightening children's picture books with enduring, inspirational and spiritual values. Our aim is to touch people's lives, with illumination and transformation. We are currently seeking fiction and non-fiction stories that are 500 to 2,000 words.

MANUSCRIPTS

1. All manuscripts must be typed, double-spaced. Please keep a copy of your work. Be sure your name and address are on your manuscript.
2. Manuscripts must be accompanied by a cover letter, including author's name, address, phone number, and the word count of the story.
3. Please enclose a short author's bio with personal and professional background and a list of previously published material, if any.
4. Include a description of what makes your book special or different from others currently on the market in the same category.
5. Tell us how you will be able to assist in the promotion of this book.
6. Sample illustrations are accepted but not necessary.
7. Please proofread the manuscript for spelling and grammatical errors.
8. We make every effort to respond in one month.
9. We strongly suggest that you review our books, and visit our website at www.illumin.com, to determine if your manuscript is appropriate for our company.
10. We do not accept chapter, full-length, or unusually sized books.
11. Include SASE for reply, with extra postage, if you wish to have your manuscript returned.

Send manuscripts to:
Illumination Arts Publishing Co., Inc.
Ruth Thompson, Editorial Director
P.O. Box 1865
Bellevue, WA 98009

ARTWORK

1. Send resume, and samples of printed artwork, or photocopies. (Do not send original artwork or slides.)
2. Include SASE, with sufficient postage, if you wish to have your artwork returned

Electronic Submissions, discs, or video tapes are not accepted for stories.
CD submissions for art are accepted.

Send artwork to:
Illumination Arts Publishing Co., Inc.
Artistic Director
P.O. Box 1865
Bellevue, WA 98009                                                                                                        

INNOVATIVE KIDS, INC.
18 Ann Street
Norwalk, CT 06854
203-838-6400
Michael Levins, President
Shari Kaufman, Publisher
Age: Preschool-Middle Grades
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Board Books & Picture Books
Publishes 28 hardcover and paperback titles annually. Publishes interactive educational books for ages 0-14.
Send query letter before submitting unsolicited manuscripts.

LEE & LOW BOOKS
95 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10016
212-779-4400
Jason Low, Co-owner, Marketing & Web site Development
Kathleen Morandini, Director of Marketing
Age: Preschool-Middle Grade
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Board Books & Picture Books
Publishes 60 hardcover and paperback titles annually.
Lines and Special Series include:
BEBOP BOOKS, AGES 3-5
Currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts.

LERNER PUBLISHING GROUP
241 First Avenue North
Minneapolis, MN 55401
612-332-3344
Adam Lerner, President & Publisher
David Wexler, Vice President, Sales & Marketing
Age: Preschool-Young Adult
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 200 hardcover and paperback titles annually.
Lines and Special Series include:
CAROLRHODA BOOKS, AGES 3-10
FIRST AVENUE EDITIONS, AGES 3-18
RUNESTONE PRESS, AGES 8-18
Accepting unsolicited manuscripts only during March and October.

S U B M I S S I O N    P O L I C Y

Submissions to Lerner Publications Company and Carolrhoda Books, Inc. -- divisions of Lerner Publishing Group -- are accepted in the months of March and October only. Submissions received in any month other than March or October will be returned unopened to the sender.

The submissions editor for Lerner Publications Company is Jennifer Zimian; the submissions editor for Carolrhoda Books is Rebecca Poole. An SASE, addressed to either Ms. Zimian or Ms. Poole, is required for all submissions. Allow 2-6 months for a response. No phone calls please.

Lerner Publishing Group does not publish alphabet books, puzzle books, song books, textbooks, workbooks, religious subject matter, or plays.

We accept requests for guidelines and catalogs year-round. Do not address these requests to Ms. Zimian or Ms. Poole. Please address requests to GUIDELINE REQUEST and send a business-sized SASE. To receive both a catalog and guidelines, write to CATALOG REQUEST and send a 9" x 12" SASE with $3.50 for postage.

MARGARET K. MCELDERRY BOOKS
(An imprint of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing)
1230 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
212-698-7000
Emma D. Dryden, Vice President & Editorial Director
Tracy van Straaten , Director of Publicity, Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
Age: Preschool-Young Adult
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 30 hardcover titles annually.
Send query letter before submitting unsolicited picture book or novel manuscripts. Query letters can also be emailed to Childrens.Submissions@simonandschuster.com.

MILKWEED EDITIONS
1011 Washington Avenue South Suite 300
Minneapolis, MN 55415
612-332-3192
Hilary Reeves, Marketing Director
Age: Middle Grade
Genre: Fiction
Format: Novels
Publishes 18 hardcover and paperback titles annually.
Lines and Special Series include:
MILKWEEDS FOR YOUNG READERS, AGES 8-13
STORIES FROM WHERE WE LIVE, AGES 9+
Currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts.

Part of Milkweed’s goal is to publish books by under-recognized and emerging authors — an important mission in a world dominated by bestsellers. As a part of that mission, we consider and respond to every manuscript that is submitted according to our guidelines.

If you have a manuscript you’d like us to consider, please read the guidelines for your type of manuscript before sending it to us. Before submitting, we request that you familiarize yourself with our current titles, and determine if your work meets our publishing program and our mission.

In addition to publication, we also offer prizes for fiction and children’s fiction manuscripts; please read the appropriate guidelines to determine whether you are eligible.

G U I D E L I N E S

fiction   |   children’s literature   |   poetry   |   nonfiction

Milkweed national fiction prize

Milkweed prize for children’s fiction

Please note that we are unable to accept manuscripts via e-mail at this time. Inquiries about the guidelines or about submissions should be directed to the editorial department: [editor@milkweed.org]. For information about other literary publishers, see our links page.

Milkweed Editions is looking for fiction manuscripts of high literary quality that embody humane values and contribute to cultural understanding.

We welcome submissions from writers who have previously published a book of fiction (novel, short stories, or novellas) or a minimum of three short stories (or novellas) in nationally distributed commercial or literary journals. Novels, novellas, and collections of short stories are welcome, as are translations.

Y O U R  M A N U S C R I P T   M U S T  B E:

• 150-400 pages

• typed or computer-printed on good-quality white paper

• double-spaced

• submitted with a stamped, self-addressed envelope for our reply.

Please note: We are continuing to accept unsolicited manuscripts by mail. PLEASE DO NOT SEND SUBMISSIONS VIA EMAIL. Due to changes in postal regulations, however, Milkweed can no longer return manuscripts in stamped book mailers. In the event that manuscripts are not accepted for publication, we prefer to recycle them. If you need your work returned, please enclose a check for $5.00 rather than a stamped book mailer.

S E N D  S U B M I S S I O N S  T O:

Fiction Reader

Milkweed Editions

1011 Washington Avenue South

Suite 300

Minneapolis, MN 55415-1246

For notification of the safe arrival of your manuscript, please include a stamped, self-addressed postcard. Please send a photocopy of your manuscript and / or any artwork, not the original, since we cannot guarantee the safekeeping of irreplaceable work. Our review process can take from one to six months. Please make no phone or email inquiries regarding submission status.

Thank you for your interest in Milkweed Editions, and good luck in your writing endeavors. Milkweed books are available at most fine bookstores. You can write to us for a catalog; enclose $1.50 for postage.

Milkweed Editions is looking for high-quality novels for readers aged 8-13 for its children's book publishing program, Milkweeds for Young Readers.

At this age, readers are ready for well-written books that range widely in subject matter, from fantasy to fiction grounded in history to books about everyday life. Manuscripts should be of high literary quality, embody humane values, and contribute to cultural understanding.

We are especially interested in fiction set in the contemporary world and in fiction that explores our relationship to the natural world.

We welcome submissions from writers who have previously published a book of fiction or nonfiction for children or adults, or a minimum of three short stories or pieces of nonfiction in nationally distributed commercial or literary journals. Translations are welcome. Please note that we do not publish children's picture books, poetry, or collections of short stories.

Y O U R   C H I L D R E N ’S   M A N U S C R I P T  

M U S T  B E:

• 90-200 pages

• typed or computer-printed on good-quality white paper

• double-spaced

• submitted with a stamped, self-addressed envelope for our reply.

Please note: We are continuing to accept unsolicited manuscripts by mail. PLEASE DO NOT SEND SUBMISSIONS VIA EMAIL. Due to changes in postal regulations, however, Milkweed can no longer return manuscripts in stamped book mailers. In the event that manuscripts are not accepted for publication, we prefer to recycle them. If you need your work returned, please enclose a check for $5.00 rather than a stamped book mailer.

S E N D  S U B M I S S I O N S  T O:

Children’s Book Reader

Milkweed Editions

1011 Washington Ave. S.

Suite 300

Minneapolis, MN 55415-1246

For notification of the safe arrival of your manuscript, please include a stamped, self-addressed postcard. Send a photocopy of your manuscript and / or any artwork, not the original, since we cannot guarantee the safekeeping of irreplaceable work. Our review process can take from one to six months. Milkweed books are available at most fine bookstores. You can write to us for a catalog; enclose $1.50 for postage. Thank you for your interest in Milkweed Editions, and good luck in your writing endeavors.

Milkweed Editions is looking for poetry manuscripts of high literary quality that embody humane values and contribute to cultural understanding. Milkweed reads poetry manuscripts only in January and June of each year. Although poetry manuscripts are not limited in subject matter, we are particularly interested in poetry about the natural world as part of our publishing program, The World As Home: Literature about the Natural World.

We welcome submissions from writers who have previously published a book of poetry or a minimum of six poems in nationally distributed commercial or literary journals. Translations are welcome, as are bilingual books. We encourage simultaneous submissions.

Y O U R   P O E T R Y  M A N U S C R I P T 

M U S T  B E:

• 60 pages or more

• typed or computer-printed on good-quality white paper

• submitted with a stamped, self-addressed envelope for our reply.

Please note: We are continuing to accept unsolicited manuscripts by mail. PLEASE DO NOT SEND SUBMISSIONS VIA EMAIL. Due to changes in postal regulations, however, Milkweed can no longer return manuscripts in stamped book mailers. In the event that manuscripts are not accepted for publication, we prefer to recycle them. If you need your work returned, please enclose a check for $5.00 rather than a stamped book mailer.

S E N D   S U B M I S S I O N S   T O:

Poetry Reader

Milkweed Editions

1011 Washington Ave. S.

Suite 668

Minneapolis, MN 55415-1246

Milkweed is focusing its nonfiction publishing on a program called The World As Home: Literature about the Natural World and is actively seeking book-length literary essays and essay collections about the physical and natural world, as well as book-length works about community—that is, about living well and harmoniously in place, whether that is rural, urban, or suburban. We are looking for books with strong personal narratives; although we publish informed and intelligent thinkers, we do not publish academic or scientific studies.

As part of that publishing program, Milkweed is continuing its Literature for a Land Ethic series of literary books about specific endangered places by regionally committed writers. Literature for a Land Ethicsupports writers, educators, and activists in defining and evolving the role of literature in furthering our culture's environmental knowledge and in articulating the possibilities for a sustainable future.

We welcome submissions from writers who have previously published a book of nonfiction (this can be a collection of essays) or a minimum of two essays in nationally distributed commercial or literary journals. Collections of essays are welcome, as are translations.

Y O U R  M A N U S C R I P T   M U S T  B E:

• 150-300 pages

• typed or computer-printed on good-quality white paper

• double-spaced

• submitted with a stamped, self-addressed envelope for our reply.

Please note: We are continuing to accept unsolicited manuscripts by mail. PLEASE DO NOT SEND SUBMISSIONS VIA EMAIL. Due to changes in postal regulations, however, Milkweed can no longer return manuscripts in stamped book mailers. In the event that manuscripts are not accepted for publication, we prefer to recycle them. If you need your work returned, please enclose a check for $5.00 rather than a stamped book mailer.

S E N D   S U B M I S S I O N S  T O:

Editor, The World As Home

Milkweed Editions

1011 Washington Ave. S.

Suite 300

Minneapolis, MN 55415-1246

MONDO PUBLISHING INC.
980 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10018
212-268-3560
Mark Vineis, President & Publisher
Randi Machado, Trade Sales & Marketing Manager
Age: Preschool-Elementary
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 40 hardcover and paperback titles annually.
Currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts. Send query letter before submitting unsolicited novel manuscripts.

ORCA BOOK PUBLISHERS

Submission Guidelines

Orca Book Publishers is presently seeking manuscripts in the following genres:

children’s picture books

young readers, and juvenile fiction

young adult fiction

For our children's book lines we are not seeking rhymed stories, seasonal stories, science fiction, fantasy without a realistic component, board books or "I Can Read" books. At this time we do not publish poetry, adult fiction, or adult non-fiction, including guidebooks.

Though by no means an exhaustive list, the following represents some of our stronger areas of interest:

Picture books:

stories about growing up in Canada, either today or in the past

modern or historical stories with a strong sense of place but universal in theme

well-researched stories based on or inspired by historical fact

stories derived from the author's own childhood experiences

In each case, we want our picture books to be good stories, well told. Any lesson or moral should be secondary to credible characters, an engaging plot and strong writing. The point of view should invite the child reader into the story.

Picture book manuscripts will typically be not more than 1,500 words (often much shorter, ocassionally somewhat longer). They should be neatly typed, double-spaced, on one side of the page only, with wide margins on 8.5 x 11" white paper. Unless you are a trained artist, no artwork should be included with picture book submissions. Original art should never be included; nor should mock-ups. Complete picture book manuscripts, no queries please, should be sent to the attention of Maggie de Vries, children's book editor.

Young Readers (also called chapter books) and Juvenile fiction:

contemporary stories with a universal theme, a compelling, unified plot, a strong, sympathetic child protagonist who grows through the course of the story and solves the central problem him/herself

well-researched stories dealing with or taking their inspiration from historical subjects, but not thinly-disguised history lessons

Young readers are usually 7000–12,500 words. Juvenile fiction manuscripts are usually up to 25,000 words. Young reader and juvenile novel queries should be sent to the attention of Maggie de Vries, children's book editor.

Teen or young adult fiction:

issue-oriented contemporary stories exploring a universal theme, with a compelling, unified plot and strong, sympathetic protagonist(s)

well-researched stories dealing with or taking their inspiration from historical subjects, but not thinly-disguised history lessons

Teen fiction manuscripts range up to 45-50,000 words. Queries regarding teen or y/a fiction should be sent to the attention of Bob Tyrrell, publisher.

In general:

At this time we are only considering manuscripts from Canadian writers. We do not read multiple submissions. Please, no faxed or e-mailed queries or submissions (they have a tendency to clog up the system and are much more likely to be lost). Inappropriate queries and submissions that arrive without a self-addressed, stamped envelope (SASE) will be fed to the shredder.

Complete picture-book manuscripts may be submitted without prior authorization. Please include a self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE) for reply and/or return of manuscript. If you are interested in submitting a novel, please send a query first, including a synopsis and three or four sample chapters. Again, a SASE must be included for a reply and/or the return of your material.

Manuscripts should be typed and double-spaced on one side only of 8.5 x 11" white paper. (Submission using coloured paper, handwriting or script fonts and typed in ALL CAPITALS are less likely to be given serious consideration.) Do not bind your work in any way (paper clips are fine). A typed cover letter of no more than one page should accompany all manuscripts. Query letters, cover letters, synopses and the first page of manuscripts should include the author's name, address and phone number. Please keep in mind that an unprofessional looking submission has the potential to prejudice even the most open-minded editor.

Picturebook submissions and novel queries are usually processed within eight weeks. However novel submissions can sometimes take up to six months. Please write or phone if you haven't heard from us by the end of these time periods. Our latest catalogue is available upon request. Please include an SASE (three first-class stamps will cover postage).

If you are considering submitting to Orca (or any other publisher for that matter), it's a good idea to spend some time in a bookstore or library looking at the kind of books we publish. A quick read of three or four of our picture books or the back cover copy of three or four novels will give you a pretty good idea whether or not your manuscript will be a good fit with our list. This kind of advance research will pay dividends in saved time and postage.

Thank you for considering Orca Book Publishers. And good luck in your search for the right publisher for your work.

Orca Book Publishers http://www.orcabook.com

PO Box 5626, Station B Victoria, BC Canada V8R 6S4

PO Box 468 Custer, WA 98240-0468

PELICAN PUBLISHING COMPANY, INC.
P.O. Box 3110
Gretna, LA 70054
504-368-1175
Kathleen Calhoun Nettleton, Promotion Director
Age: Preschool-Young Adult
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 10 hardcover and paperback titles annually.
Lines and Special Series include:
CLOVIS CRAWFISH SERIES, AGES 4+
NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS SERIES, AGES 4+
Currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts

Submissions Policy: Pelican Publishing Company does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. All writers should send us a query letter and SASE, describing the project briefly and concisely. This letter should include a complete address and telephone number. Pelican Publishing Company does not accept queries or any other submissions by e-mail. All queries must be submitted by mail according to the following guidelines. Multiple (or "simultaneous") queries are not considered.

A query letter should discuss the following: the book's content, its anticipated length (in double-spaced pages, not in words), its intended audience, the author's writing and professional background, and any promotional ideas and contacts the author may have. If the author has previously been published by another firm, please specify why a change is being sought. A formal synopsis, chapter outline, and/or one or two sample chapters may be sent with a query letter, but these are not required. Never send the original copy of any material.

Be advised that we have certain expectations in the length of a proposed manuscript. Most young children's books are 32 illustrated pages when published; their manuscripts cover about 7 pages when typed continuously. Proposed books for middle readers (ages 8 and up) should be at least 150 pages. Adult books should be more than this. For cookbooks, we require at least 200 proposed recipes.

If necessary, brief children's books (for readers under nine) may be submitted in their entirety. Photocopies of any accompanying artwork are welcome, but again, NEVER send any original artwork.

We will respond as promptly as possible (usually one month), letting you know whether or not we feel the project is worth pursuing further. If we feel that it is worthy of consideration, we will request a partial or full manuscript. Following this procedure ensures the most expeditious treatment of all inquiries.

We do not require that writers contacting us have a literary agent representing them.

A phone call to the editor or secretary or an in-person drop off of unrequested material does not automatically imply that a project has been solicited. For this and other obvious reasons, we discourage phone inquiries and in-person drop offs. If an author we have requested additional material from is unclear as to what we're asking for, a phone call to clarify the matter is acceptable.

Solicited manuscripts are carefully scrutinized by the editor(s). On occasion, they may be examined by our sales and/or promotions departments to gauge their marketability. They are then passed on to the publisher for preliminary and final consideration. The submissions are reported on as soon as possible, but this process may take up to three months (12 weeks). If acceptance is recommended, the author(s) will be asked to sign a contract with Pelican Publishing Company.

If the three-month period for solicited manuscripts passes without the author being informed of a decision, a polite note of reminder from the author is not out of order. Phone calls on the status of manuscripts are very strongly discouraged. Never badger the editor for an instant decision or make demands or threats; this can only hurt the author's chances of acceptance. Authors who feel unsatisfied with our procedures or the amount of time being taken to reach a decision are free to request the manuscript's return at any time.

Pelican Publishing requires exclusive submission for all solicited manuscripts during the 12-week period mentioned above. This is for obvious reasons. We can only give full attention to those manuscripts which we are likely to be able to publish if accepted by us.

We also ask that authors who have solicited works under consideration please refrain from sending us other works or proposals during this time unless they are specifically requested to do so. Agreement on our part to look at a particular work does not imply blanket authorization to send unrelated materials and doing so could hurt, rather than help, an author. Materials related to the requested submission, such as favorable newspaper clippings, endorsements by qualified professionals in the field the author is writing about, or other amended data may be sent and added to the material already on file. Use careful judgment in selecting these items and be certain that they enhance the material and its chances of being accepted. Sending in later data that refutes or calls into question points made in the earlier submission may cast doubts on the whole project's veracity and damage its chances of acceptance. Always be certain to refer to the work's title, the author name under which it was submitted, and the date the original query was mailed.

Materials will not be returned unless they are accompanied by sufficient postage. Policies regarding SASE's apply to all submissions from foreign countries, including Canada. Return postage must be in stamps, checks on U.S. banks, or International Money Orders in U.S. money.

We require all submissions, including outlines, resumes, sample chapters, etc., be neatly typed on 8 ½ by 11 inch paper and double-spaced with sufficient margins (1 inch on all sides). Query letters are customarily single-spaced. Be sure that your typewriter has a well-inked ribbon and, if corrections are made, they should be "whited-out" as inconspicuously as possible. Submissions with numerous misspellings, typographical errors, and handwritten corrections reflect unfavorably on the author and may contribute heavily toward a rejection. Writers are cautioned not to rely on editors to clean up after them or interpret unclear information, regardless of how good they think their material may be. A sloppy submission is often indicative of worse problems--the type editors and publishers prefer not to deal with.

Handwritten submissions and/or queries, unless neatly printed in the absence of a typewriter, do not make favorable impressions on editors and could jeopardize your chances of acceptance. For those using computers, we strongly advise you to send us your submissions in letter-quality or near-letter-quality type--not dot matrix. Electronic submissions (discs) are not accepted. These would only be needed once a contract was signed. Never send discs, videotapes, or audio tapes without inquiring beforehand.

We accept no responsibility for original and only-copies of material. We require that all writers send us copies of their work and to retain the originals at home. We will not be responsible for misplaced or lost material.

Authors should avoid undue "hype-ing" of their work. Materials submitted with author projections of it being a "blockbuster" or "the next Gone With the Wind" rarely live up to these pretensions. The publisher and editor(s) are professionals who can make up their own minds on the quality and potential of a proposal without the "self-hype." Comments and/or reviews from qualified professionals or publications, as stated earlier, can be desirable in many cases. Likewise for rejection letters from other publishing companies that acknowledge a project's potential value and which base their rejections on other factors unrelated to quality of author workmanship.

We look for clarity and conciseness of expression and presentation in a synopsis/outline and we ask to see those that will most likely yield proposals fitting our list and that we feel we can market successfully. We turn down thousands of adequate proposals every year just because they have no clear "hooks" or well-defined audiences. The author should present a strong case as to why we should take on the book and who would buy it. Saying that "all children would love it" is very vague, but saying "libraries and schools in Tennessee would like this" is more informative.

All work submitted to us must be in good taste, nonlibelous, and consistent with the level of quality we have established for our company. Although many of our titles are specialized, they are all suitable for general readership and are free of gratuitous, off-color words, phrases, or references.

If an author seeking to publish an illustrated work plans to use artwork copyrighted by an author, illustrator, publication, or syndicate, permission must be obtained in writing from that source. Permission in writing must also be obtained by any author seeking to use quotes or other materials from previously copyrighted publications. We will not publish illustrations or portions of another copyrighted work without written authorization to do so.

Authors seeking to have previously published books reprinted must have, in writing from their previous publisher, a signed letter transferring all rights (including copyright) to them. This is required under the 1978 Copyright Law and must be adhered to in all such cases.

Under the revisions contained in the 1978 Copyright Law, a work is automatically copyrighted at the time of creation. If we agree to accept the work for publication, we will apply for the copyright in the author's name on publication.

TYPES OF BOOK PUBLISHED: Hardcover and trade paperback originals (90%) and reprints (10%) including hardcover, trade paperback, and mass market. We publish an average of 50 to 60 titles a year and have about 800 currently in print.

Specialties are art/architecture books, cooking/cookbooks, motivational, travel guides, history (especially Louisiana/regional), nonfiction, children's books (illustrated and otherwise), inspirational and religious, humor, social commentary, folklore, and textbooks. A very limited number of fictional works are accepted for publication, but we will consider fiction if well written and/or timely.

We seek writers on the cutting edge of ideas who do not write in cliches, or take the old, tired, unimaginative way of foul language and sex scenes to pad a poor writing effort. We strongly urge writers to be aware of ideas gaining currency. We believe ideas have consequences. One of the consequences is that they lead to best-selling books.

We do publish a limited number of posters, cards, giftware, and similar works of art. Consideration of submission of this type is based on consistency with other motifs we are marketing at the present time.

Finally, we would ask you to study Pelican's books and lists. Our latest catalog is available for free on request, and a look through it will help you understand where our interests lie. We have been called "innovative" by the New York Times. We will consider almost any well-written work by an author who understands promotion.

PAYMENT POLICY: Pelican pays its authors a royalty based on sales. The rate depends on the type of material and the format.

All terms are specified in the contract all authors publishing under our imprint(s) are required to sign. No book will be published by Pelican without a contract signed beforehand.

All guidelines listed above are subject to revision at any time by Pelican Publishing Company and its editorial board.

Send all query letters to:

Editorial Department
Pelican Publishing Company
P.O. Box 3110
Gretna, LA 70054

PUFFIN BOOKS
(An imprint of Penguin Putnam BFYR)
345 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
212-414-3600
Tracy Tang, President & Publisher
Gina Maolucci, Executive Director of Marketing
Age: Preschool-Young Adult
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 200 paperback titles annually.
Lines and Special Series include:
PUFFIN LIFT-THE-FLAP, AGES 2-6
PUFFIN EASY TO READ, AGES 5-8
PUFFIN CHAPTERS, AGES 7-11
ALLOY BOOKS, AGES 12+
FIREBIRD, AGES 12+
Currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts.

SEASTAR BOOKS
11 East 26th Street, 17th Floor
New York, NY 10010
212-706-4545
David Reuther, President & Publisher
Beth Eller, Vice President & Director of Marketing
Age: Preschool-Young Adult
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 40 hardcover and paperback titles annually.
Currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts from SCBWI members, published or agented authors.

Manuscript submission policy
SeaStar Books will currently review manuscripts submitted by agents, published authors, and members of the Society of Children's Books Writers and Illustrators. Picture books should be sent in their entirety; nonfiction should be queried first; novels should be submitted as a summary and approximately three sample chapters. Manuscripts should be typed and double-spaced. Enclose a SASE with the submission and address to Manuscript Submissions, SeaStar Books, 11 E. 26th St., 17th floor, New York, NY 10010. E-mail submissions are not accepted. Allow at least eight weeks for response.

Illustration submission policy
Portfolio Drop-off: Illustrators may drop off their portfolios at the reception desk for review on Thursdays without an appointment, beginning at 9 A.M. for pick up by 5 the same day. Please specify if you need to pick up your portfolio earlier in the day, or if you would like to pick it up the following morning. Please note that without this information we will assume you will be back the same day, and North-South Books/SeaStar Books does not accept responsibility for portfolios left in the reception area overnight. Do not include any original art in your portfolio, as we will not accept responsibility for it. Please include a comment sheet for feedback, and samples for our files.

Art Samples by Mail: SeaStar Books will accept samples of illustrators' work to keep on file. A reply can be expected only if samples are accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Art samples will not be returned. Make sure each item is marked with current contact information. Please do not send original art, portfolios, transparencies, slides, or any sort of media. Unsolicited E-mail submissions of artwork are not accepted.

Address portfolios and samples to the attention of
Art Submissions
SeaStar Books
11 East 26th Street, 17th Floor
New York, NY 10010

SIMON & SCHUSTER BFYR
(An imprint of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing)
1230 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
212-698-7200
Suzanne Murphy, Vice President of Marketing
Age: Preschool-Young Adult
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 80 hardcover titles annually.
Send query letter before submitting unsolicited picture book or novel manuscripts. Query letters can also be emailed to Childrens.Submissions@simonandschuster.com.

STEMMER HOUSE PUBLISHERS, INC.
2627 Caves Road
Owings Mills, MD 21117
410-363-3690
Barbara Holdridge, President
Age: Preschool-Middle Grade
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 3 hardcover and paperback titles annually.
Lines and Special Series include:
CURIOUS LITTLE CRITTERS SERIES, AGES 5-10
NATURE ENCYCLOPEDIA SERIES, AGES 5-12
POETRY FOR YOUNG PEOPLE SERIES, ALL AGES
EARLY READERS, AGES 6-10
Send query letter before submitting unsolicited picture book or novel manuscripts.

Turnstone Press
Guideline for Submission of Manuscripts

Turnstone Press is a literary press that publishes ten to twelve new titles each calendar year: fiction, non-fiction--including literary criticism--and poetry. Located in Winnipeg, Turnstone Press publishes Canadian writers with an emphasis on writers from, and writing about, the Canadian West.

Since 1976 Turnstone has published over 200 titles. In the past five years Turnstone Press has published 46 new titles: 20 fiction, 14 poetry, 5 anthologies and 12 non-fiction. Turnstone Press generally decides on its publishing list for spring titles by the previous September, and on fall titles by the previous December.

Our books cover a broad range of subjects and styles in an eclectic manner. We suggest writers browse through some Turnstone titles before submitting. In 1998 Turnstone launched a new imprint called Ravenstone which consists of literary genre fiction (we are particularly interested in mystery, gothic and noir).

Turnstone Press prefers to consider single submissions, but will consider multiple submissions. Please indicate if the manuscript is a multiple submission. We review unsolicited manuscripts, but prefer a query first, accompanied by a sample. We do not accept electronic submissions. Samples should be 20 to 40 pages double-spaced, with all pages numbered, name and address on all pages, and no binding or stapling. We regret to inform that, due to time constraints, we are unable to provide feedback on all the manuscripts we receive.

An initial response or query will normally be reported within 12 weeks. Submissions are first screened in house. This stage normally takes 12 to 16 weeks. If the manuscript is being seriously considered, it will be circulated to an Editorial Advisory Board. A final decision will normally take an additional 2 to 3 months.

Every calendar year we receive more than a thousand unsolicited manuscripts. Some ten percent are passed along to the Editorial Advisory Board. After an in-depth discussion of each manuscript at this stage approximately half of the manuscripts are kept for serious consideration, and 10 to 12 are ultimately published as books. All of the manuscripts that go to the Editorial Advisory Board for serious deliberation are well written and of considerable interest. Those not published might well be published in another year or by another publishing house; often the decision made has as much to do with matters such as marketability as with literary merit.

Please do not submit via e-mail. Please address queries, including a manuscript sample and synopsis, with a self-addressed stamped envelope to:

Acquisitions Editor
Turnstone Press
607-100 Arthur Street
Artspace Building
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Canada R3B 1H3

VIKING CHILDREN'S BOOKS
(An imprint of Penguin Putnam BFYR)
345 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
212-366-2000
Regina Hayes , President & Publisher
Age: Preschool-Young Adult
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Board Books, Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 60 hardcover titles annually.
Accepting unsolicited board book and picture book manuscripts. Send query letter for unsolicited novel manuscripts.

WALKER AND COMPANY
435 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
212-727-8300
Emily Easton, Publisher, BFYR
Susan Barry Fallon, Marketing Director, BFYR
Age: Preschool-Young Adult
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 30 hardcover and paperback titles annually.
Currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts.

General Submission Guidelines

Walker & Company
435 Hudson Street
8th Floor
New York, NY 10014

All materials must be accompanied by a self-addressed, postage-paid return envelope or your material will not be returned. Please make us aware if it is a multiple submission. All submissions must be typed and double-spaced. Do not send original artwork; photocopies or c-prints are acceptable. Walker will not be responsible for the loss of original artwork or other one-of-a-kind materials.

Please note that Walker does not publish adult fiction outside of our mystery category. We no longer publish Westerns, thrillers, or Regency Romance novels.

Books for Young Readers
Fiction and Nonfiction
Particularly interested in picture books, illustrated non-fiction, middle grade and young adult fiction.
No series ideas, or books written strictly for "reports".
Send 50-75 pages and synopsis for longer works; send the entire manuscript for picture books.

In the following category, we can only consider manuscripts and proposals submitted to us through literary agents.

Nonfiction
Serious history, science, mathematics and technology for a general readership, biography, autobiography, business, health, sports, sourcebooks.
Permissions and documentation must be available with the manuscript.
Submit proposal first on paper with outline, sample chapters, and market analysis.
We can not consider manuscripts submitted electronically.

WINSLOWHOUSE
115 East 23rd Street
New York, NY 10010
212-254-2025
Diane Kessenich, Publisher
Age: Preschool-Young Adult
Genre: Fiction & Nonfiction
Format: Picture Books & Novels
Publishes 25 hardcover and paperback titles annually.
Currently accepting unsolicited manuscript

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