* UPDATED APRIL 2012*
You can’t get published without an agent, and you can’t get an agent without being published – or so the adage goes.
Thankfully, there are still a few children’s book publishers who are happy to wade through the ‘slush pile’, that teetering tower of manuscripts we imagine fill up a corner of the office, each one representing an agent-less writer who is hoping against hope that they might be plucked from obscurity.
So in the spirit of writerly comradeship here is my current list of writer-friendly children’s fiction publishers in the UK who still accept unsolicited manuscripts. Check their website guidelines and submit away, but please do correct me if I’ve made any errors or incorrect assumptions.
NB Where there is a link, I have endeavoured to take you, the linkee, to the submissions guidelines page of the publisher’s website; where that is not possible I have linked to the main website page.
A&C Black are happy to receive unsolicited manuscripts but these should be accompanied by a synopsis of the subject matter, the market you are aiming at, how the submission compares with the current competition, and also a brief outline of your background and qualifications. They can be emailed and should have the word Submission in the subject line.
Last time I enquired, A&C Black were only taking submissions for their Chameleons, Black Cats and Flashbacks series. They ask for the complete ms for the Chameleons and a synopsis and 2 chapters for the longer series. They reply promptly with a personalised letter. Chameleons are chapter books for newly confident readers, 1200 words divided into 6 chapters; Black Cats are short illustrated novels of 9-14K words for ages 7-10 and Flashbacks are historical novels supporting the key Stage 2 curriculum of 12-14K words.
Anderson Press publish picture books of approximately 500 words (1K max), juvenile fiction of 3-5K and older fiction of up to 75K. They require a synopsis and 3 sample chapters, hard copy only, and aim to reply within 2 months. They use a standard rejection slip and reply promptly.
Bridge House is a small press which specialises in themed anthologies of short stories, often for charity. They are currently closed to submissions but check the website for future anthology details. May be unsuitable for ‘darker’ material.
Child’s Play specialise in quality picture books for age 0-8, sometimes combined with games and toys, for example to make up the popular Story Sacks. They have companies in the US and Australia. You should submit by post only with the full text (note length recommendation of max 1,500 words). Enclose an SAE or indicate that you would like a reply by email. Note that they recommend simultaneous submissions (sending off to more than one publisher), and that they do not require illustrations with the text.
David Fickling Books publish picture books, and fiction for 5-8 years, 9-12 years, teens and young adults. They require the first three chapters by post only, and aim to reply within 3 months if they are interested. If you don’t hear back by then, you have not been successful.
Egmont is a large publisher with a huge range of titles for all ages. They accept submissions of synopsis plus first 3 chapters by email only to childrensreader@euk.egmont.com. Although the site says they reply to all email submissions, I have never had a reply from them.
This Scottish publisher accepts postal submissions for its Picture Kelpies, and Kelpies range of books for 6-9 and 8-12 year olds. Books should be between 30 and 60K words. Note: only approach if you are a Scottish writer or your book has a Scottish setting and/or theme.
Thank you to one of my readers for suggesting this publishing company to add to my list; they publish picture books, young fiction (6-9 years) and novels (9-14 years) and are looking for exceptional writing that really stands out. You can email submissions as long as they are below 2MB in size.
Little Tiger Press publish picture and novelty books up to 750 words for readers up to age 7. Submissions should be sent by post only, and they offer some useful tips on their submissions page. They aim to reply within 3 months.
Maverick publish a range of lively and colourful picture books. They are looking for quirky, interesting reads with strong storylines. As a guide, their books are usually 32 pages long and no longer than 1,200 words and they prefer text only, not illustrations. Unlike some picture book publishers they do accept stories in rhyme. Email submissions are preferred as pdf or Word attachments together with a covering letter or email, but you can also submit by post.
Meadowside accept picture books of less than 1K words, junior fiction of 6-10K words and older fiction of any length. They ask for the first three chapters with a word count and one page synopsis. They prefer email and do not reply to unsuccessful submissions, although they did actually reply to mine, so perhaps it depends on when you catch them!
Mogzilla are an emerging independent publishing company with educational links, specialising in pre-teen and teenage fiction from 45-75K long. They ask for proposals to be emailed and they will then request the manuscript if they are interested, either by post or in pdf form. They do not return paper manuscripts. You should also avoid sending them a historical cat series (see website)!
Nosy Crow are a new publisher keen to embrace the latest technologies who accept ms for readers up to age 14. They ask for a short synopsis and the first chapter plus a covering letter about you and your work. They accept by email or post and aim to reply within 6 weeks, although this can vary.
This Irish publisher accepts picture books of less than 1K words, and fiction for 6+, 8+, 10+ and 13+. They ask for a synopsis and 2 or 3 sample chapters by post only. Although they state they do not return unsuccessful submissions, they did return mine recently. Also note that if you do send an SAE don’t use English stamps!
Unfortunately OUP are currently no longer accepting unsolicited manuscripts.
This new publisher accepts submissions for readers up to age 12, although they are particularly seeking stories for 7-9 year olds, and comic book style or graphic novels. (They also take ideas for apps.) Send a synopsis and the first 3 chapters by post or email. If you do not hear back within 12 weeks you should assume you have been unsuccessful.
Piccadilly Press specialise in contemporary fiction for 6+, 8-12 and 11-15 year olds. They also publish picture books of between 500 and 1K words (32 pages). They accept both post and email submissions consisting of a brief covering letter, synopsis and 2 chapters. They reply promptly, within 6 weeks.
Ransom publish books for reluctant readers, specialising in low reading age/high content age books. They will consider unsolicited manuscripts and ask you to email in the first instance rather than submit straight away.
CURRENTLY IN ADMINISTRATION DUE TO FINANCIAL CUTBACKS
Ragged Bears only publishes picture books, so do not send them anything else. Their website says they do not accept email submissions, but their entry in the Writers and Artists Yearbook 2011 says they prefer email submissions, so I can’t confirm which is correct! However you send it, they take three to four months to reply.
This new independent publisher is currently closed to submissions due to a large backlog. They publish novels for children and young adults, and also publish anthologies. Manuscripts should be sent by email only.
Robinswood publish fiction from 3-12 years plus educational material. They have very specific guidelines on how they prefer you to submit, which you can read by using the link above. You need to send the information they request on a single email with no attachments and they will reply within 4-6 weeks if they would like to see more.
Scholastic publish a wide range of fiction for 5-9, 8-12 and older readers as well as picture books. They ask for postal submissions only of 3 chapters and a covering letter, and say to expect to wait up to 6 months for a response, though I have always found they reply very promptly. However they did address me as Mr Archambrault on one rejection letter!
Strident are not accepting unsolicited manuscripts at the moment but are hoping to reopen their doors soon. When open for submissions, they are looking for books for the 7-9, 9-12 and YA age groups. Submit by post or email. They would like you to specify in your covering letter who you think will buy your book, why, and how. Unusually, they request the blurb and first three chapters rather than the synopsis.
Stripes are owned by the same company as Little Tiger Press and they publish books for readers aged 6-12. They accept postal submissions only which should consist of a covering letter, a detailed synopsis and the first 3 chapters. They aim to reply within 3 months but usually take longer due to their backlog. I recently received a lovely detailed rejection letter from them apologising for the long delay with some really useful feedback and encouragement.
Part of Random House, Tamarind was set up to redress the balance of ethnicity in children’s literature by promoting books with black, Asian or mixed heritage characters. They are keen to expand their list and find new authors but you should pay close attention to their submissions guidelines which also suggestions word count and possible subjects You can submit by post or email and should send them a covering letter/email, a synopsis and the first three chapters. Picture books can be sent in their entirety without illustrations and you should avoid using animal characters but keep to the ethos in the guidelines.
Tango publish novelty books and accept manuscripts by post or email. Their website is currently being updated so if the link doesn’t work go to the main site at www.tangobooks.co.uk.
Best known for the wonderful ‘ology’ books, Templar have branched out with a small list of intelligently written children’s fiction. They ask for a synopsis and the first 3 chapters, by post only, and aim to reply within 3 months.
Top That! specialise in children’s picture and activity book and internet-linked fiction. Their submission guidelines are brief and advise you to study their catalogue (on the website) before submitting as they are very specialised. They prefer postal submissions with a contact email address but will accept emails under 1MB.
This small publisher has closed submissions for the present time as their lists are full, but keep an eye on their site for opportunities to submit to their anthologies.
Catalogues
When submitting to publishers it is worth looking through their current catalogue to see what they are accepting at the moment. If you can’t find a link to a catalogue from the main site, try googling the publisher’s name, catalogue 2012 and pdf. I have easily found quite a few catalogues this way.
Brian Lux
July 21, 2010
I have just submitted one for younger readers to Piccadilly Press. Have had to send it again via email as the ‘brilliant’ Post Office lost the hard copy. Not the first time, and I wonder why so many insist on hard copy submissions.
loutreleaven
July 22, 2010
True, particularly as they can usually tell very quickly if it is the sort of style they are looking for. It is interesting that the new publishers all encourage email submissions, and I wonder if the more traditional publishers need to embrace technology a bit more!
Debs Riccio
September 22, 2010
Wow – thanks for these – I was ‘guided’ here by my spiritual friend, Deborah Durbin… maybe it’s meant to be!
loutreleaven
September 23, 2010
Hope it’s useful Debs – I’m trying to keep it up to date so do let me know if you find any new markets I haven’t mentioned!
anna
September 29, 2010
Thanks for these addresses and all the information. Do you know of any children’s pubblishers that accept picture books for toddler age?
Thanks
loutreleaven
September 29, 2010
Hi Anna! The good news is there are plenty of publishers who are looking for good picture books. Most of them ask for a length of between 500 and 1000 words, and it is usual to send the whole manuscript for this length rather than a sample. You can try Anderson, David Fickling, Egmont, Floris (Scottish authors/themes only), Frances Lincoln, Meadowside, Nosy Crow, O’Brien, Oxford University Press, Phoenix Yard, Piccadilly Press, Robinswood (very specialised, mostly with an educational slant) and Scholastic. See the list above for links to each publisher’s site. I will also update the list to include relevant picture book information, so thanks for the prompt!
anna
October 2, 2010
Thank you so much. I was totally lost before so now I finally have something to start working from. Thanks
loutreleaven
October 4, 2010
Good luck!
Kathryn
October 6, 2010
Thank you so much, I can’t tell you how helpful this has been. I am in the process preparing my finished stories to send to publishers for the first time, and this information is golden.
There is one thing I have been wondering about that I hope you could help with. I have completely absorbed the advise given by yourself and many others to prepare myself for rejection, and I completely understand my work will not be everybody’s cup of tea. Though I have been wondering about the scenario of having more than one publisher interested in my stories. Am I right in assuming I am able to send copies of my work to all relevant publishers at the same time, and if I receive more than one offer to publish I can chose who I go with and the others will just discard the story?. In short, the publisher has no rights over my stories to use or keep them unless I have signed a contract with them?. Probably sounds like an odd question, though I wouldn’t want to follow the wrong etiquette or upset anybody in an industry I am just starting out in. Your advise would be greatly welcomed and appreciated.
loutreleaven
October 6, 2010
Hello Kathryn, I’m so glad you’ve found the information helpful.
Your query about sending out your manuscript to more than one publisher (known as simultaneous submissions, as opposed to multiple submissions which is sending more than one manuscript to the same publisher) is an interesting one. Considering it can take 3 to 6 months to get a reply to a submission, if you are working through the list above one at a time it could take 10 years! Publishers understand this and it is acceptable to approach more than one, providing you are honest and clear at all times about what you are doing. For example, you could mention on your covering letter that you are also approaching other publishers. If asked for the rest of the manuscript, you should say if another publisher is interested as well. The book is yours until you have signed a contract. If you are still worried about avoiding this situation my advice would be to send out in small groups of 2 or 3 publishers at a time rather than a long list.
I hope that helps and I wish you all the best in your submissions! (One thing I’ve found very helpful when I get a rejection is to send the manuscript out again the same day – imagine it’s a hot coal that you don’t want to hang on to!)
helenblackman
January 10, 2011
Thanks for your incredibly useful list.
Now on to the ‘How to write a synopsis’ link!
loutreleaven
January 11, 2011
Or to give it its full title, The Dreaded Synopsis!
Glad you are finding the list helpful, Helen. Good luck with your submissions.
Sherri
January 13, 2011
Is this list useful for writers living in the United States?
loutreleaven
January 13, 2011
Hi Sherri,
It is only UK publishers, I’m afraid, but there’s nothing to stop you submitting to them from the US, particularly the ones who accept email submissions so you can avoid postage expenses. Good luck!
PS You may want to run your manuscript through a UK English spellchecker first to change to English spellings.
Mark
January 31, 2011
Thanks for this.
I have been writing for years and would love to see one thing published.
Here’s hoping.
Mark
loutreleaven
January 31, 2011
Good luck, Mark, keep on in there!
Mark
January 31, 2011
Thank you. I have so many ideas, notes, scribbles on a wide range of stories for all ages that I need to try and get them out there.
Success is not what my goal. Like a guy in a marathon, I don’t expect to win- I’ll just be happy to finish. Like that just being published will ‘success’ for me.
Thanks again.
Amanda Brown
February 3, 2011
Hello, thank you so much for this info, it is very helpful. I wondered if you could tell me what a covering letter to the publisher would state. I’m going to try Scholastic first but want to get the cover letter right!
Thank you
loutreleaven
February 3, 2011
Hi Amanda, glad you are finding the list helpful!
The covering letter should really just act as an introduction to your work and you, but I would keep it short. Tell them you would like them to consider your book, and a little about it like a short blurb so they know the genre, age range etc. You should also mention any relevant information about yourself such as previous published work or if you have particular experience or expertise in what you are writing about. But don’t worry if you don’t!
I have also been told you can mention other writers they publish that you admire, or think you are similar to. I find this difficult to do without sounding like I’m creeping, so I’ll leave that up to you!
Good luck!
Lou
Trudie Webb
February 8, 2011
Thanks so much for taking the time to put this website together it is so very helpful.
Tim Davis
February 13, 2011
Thank you so much for taking the time to share this list. I hope the warmth of your kindness in such gestures is reflected in your writing, and that you enjoy the success you deserve.
loutreleaven
February 14, 2011
What a nice thing to say! Thank you!
Matthew Norrish
February 15, 2011
A big thank you Lou for putting this excellent information together – I’ll send my first book on to you when it gets published! Your generosity will surely come back to you doubled.
loutreleaven
February 16, 2011
Thanks Matthew – signed copy, please! I look forward to reading it!
Ben Wiggins
February 18, 2011
I have found this list very helpful. However, I am finding it hard to find the niche that my book fits in. Do you know the general submission guidelines for publishing a wordless picture book? I have seen many of them, but no proper way to explain the idea…
loutreleaven
February 18, 2011
That’s an interesting one, Ben, as most submissions procedures do ask for the first chapters, or the full text if it’s a picture book. On the other hand, a wordless picture book is a great product as potentially it has a much wider audience, ie no translation problems! I have also seen them used in schools as first ‘reading’ books so children can get used to the idea of interpreting a narrative. I think in your case, Ben, you should explain the concept in your covering letter or email, and then include all the pictures that will be used in the book. (I’m assuming you are the illustrator; if not, you will need to describe what is happening on each page.) Little Tiger Press is a good company to submit picture books to, and I have added their details to the list. Hope this helps!
Linda
February 22, 2011
Thanks for this VERY helpful website. Our son died nearly 2 years ago leaving instructions to publish 3 short stories he’d written. Daunting, as I have no previous experience in this field. We have no illustrations and also wonder whether proceeds can go to charity if successful. Any tips or recommendations would be most welcome. Many thanks again for the work you’ve put in.
loutreleaven
February 22, 2011
Hi Linda, I’m so sorry to hear about your son. It’s great though that he’s left you these stories and it would be wonderful to get them published. Have you looked at the Bridge House website, as they publish short story anthologies? They choose different themes so you might have to wait until the right theme comes up before submitting them. It’s also worth keeping an eye out for short story competitions, as you could donate any prize money to charity, although some do charge for entry. Prizemagic is a good (and entertaining) site to look at for competition listings. If you don’t have any success this way, it might be worth considering self publishing with a company such as Lulu, where it is free to put your book on their site and then the purchaser pays for a printed copy. Or you could talk to a local printer who could print the stories in a booklet which you could sell locally for charity. They would probably be able to give you good advice on how to manage layout etc. (Note – if you do go down this route, beware of publishers asking for lots of money up front – if in doubt you can check any name on the website Preditors and Editors. A local printer is usually the better and safer option.) Good luck.
Kim
February 23, 2011
First of all, thank you for this very helpful site. I have just had a rejection for a picture book. It was a really nice rejection as it contained praise and some tips and wished me luck with another publisher. I had read that if an editor mentions your name and the title of your book then you are lucky. So to have comments does that mean I am doing something right? I took on board what was said to me and have sent it to another publisher. I have a different manuscript and would like to send it to the first publisher. Is it acceptable to send different manuscripts to separate publishers at the same time?
thanks, Kim
loutreleaven
February 23, 2011
I hope it is, Kim, as I do it all the time! I have several manuscripts and they are all being looked at by different publishers, so go ahead and submit away.
It sounds like the first publisher has given you some great feedback and I think you should definitely send them your other book. You are right when you say that it is rare to get comments – it is, so be encouraged, you are doing well! Also you now have a contact at that publisher and, who knows, they could be looking forward to reading more from you. Good luck.
Kim
February 24, 2011
Thanks Lou, I have it all ready to post tomorrow. As soon as I have any good news I will let you know.
Just read The Echo and Sweet things. I think The Echo would make a good movie, chilling stuff and Sweet Things reminds me of Grimms fairy tales. Well done!
loutreleaven
February 25, 2011
Thank you! Good luck with the submission – fingers crossed!
kimberly
March 2, 2011
Thank you so much for this, it will come in so useful. I’ve been searching and searching and the only hope i had was scholastic, but this gives me a wider range of people to approach.
.
I got accepted before by someone but then turned down because of my age! Then another company said age wasn’t a problem but it wasn’t quite what they were looking for.
(I’m 14). Oh well, it’s all worth a try
Thanks again!
loutreleaven
March 2, 2011
What a shame you were turned down because of your age, Kimblerly. I’m sure lots of publishing companies would look on a young author as a bonus – just think of Christopher Paolini, who wrote the first draft of Eragon when he was fifteen! Keep trying and I’m sure you’ll get there.
Gemma Bellamy
March 8, 2011
Thankyou, Lou. You have saved me so much time by providing all of this information – it was such a relief when I found your site! I am just starting out in fulfilling a longheld ambition of becoming a children’s writer. I do prefer to write in rhyme, however, and I understand this is not the most favoured style with publishers but am going to give it my best. Julia McDonald has done okay out of it!
It is clear from the comments that most people get considerable enjoyment from writing for children, and I hate to be the first to mention money, but obviously this is an important factor for anyone wishing to make a living from their work. I was wondering how much a new writer could expect to get paid for a picture book (text only) of around 800-1000 words? Is this normally a fixed fee or does it relate to how well the book sells? I know the value probably varies considerably from publisher to publisher but can you suggest a ball-park figure?
Thankyou for this inspiring and informative site. You have helped me so much.
Kind regards
Gemma.
loutreleaven
March 9, 2011
Hi Gemma, I’m glad you’re finding my list helpful. It’s great to be able to give support to other writers – it can be a lonely business! Your question about how much you could expect to be paid for a picture book is a good one. I can’t find a definite answer for you and, although it’s tempting to just say, “Not very much!”, that wouldn’t be helpful and if you look at someone like Julia Donaldson, she has been very successful. In terms of what you can expect when you are published, your payment usually comes in the form of an advance, after which you will be paid royalities from sales, but only after you have ‘earned back’ that advance. In other words if the book sells well you will make more than your advance, but if it doesn’t you will still have your advance but nothing extra. The amount for an advance will vary according to the size of the publisher, but for a debut picture book author the advance is likely to be small, which is why most authors either have another job as well or diversify by teaching or public speaking. I think the average salary for an author is something like £7,000 at the moment!
The important factor, like you say, is to enjoy the process. If you are able to get paid for your writing, that is the icing on the cake. But remember to enjoy the cake as well!
Good luck with your submissions and let me know if you have any good news.
imzahmed29
March 9, 2011
Nosy Crow are great publisher. Have you seen there innovative children applications?
loutreleaven
March 9, 2011
Yes, they are getting a very good reception to their Three Little Pigs app at the moment!
Gemma Bellamy
March 10, 2011
Thankyou for your reply, Lou. Most helpful.
I meant Julia Donaldson (not McDonald!) – oh dear, well, clearly no plagiarism there: I can’t even remember the author’s name!
I can’t imagine how wonderful it must feel seeing your first book in print ! I’m sure just holding it in my hands will mean more than the money.
Thanks again.
Gemma.
Ed
March 16, 2011
Great list.
Thanks.
loutreleaven
March 17, 2011
You’re welcome!
Karen Mullally
March 17, 2011
Hi Lou,
Thanks so much for doing so much legwork. It’s really picked my wilting wannerbe writer spirits up today to find there are some publishers accepting submissions after all!
loutreleaven
March 17, 2011
Oh good, I hope you are successful with your submissions!
Annette Showler
April 16, 2011
Thanks to your comprehensive list of publishers, I have sent samples to Phoenix Yard books and Tiger Press and will let you know how things go!
I hope to meet you in person at the Silsoe Dog Show!
Thank you again.
loutreleaven
April 18, 2011
Good luck, Annette – I will keep my fingers crossed for you!
Annette Showler
April 27, 2011
Heard back from Tiger Press. Sadly, `The Adventures of Seabrite Spider` isn’t suitable for their list but I appreciate the reply email.
I feel like laying down my pen until a publisher picks up some of my work but this feeling only lasts a short time, then I have to write again!!!
Best wishes
Annette
loutreleaven
April 27, 2011
I’m sorry to hear that, Annette. I hope you’ve sent it straight back out again – that’s the best thing to do. Try to imagine you’re playing ‘Pass the Bomb’!
Annette Showler
April 27, 2011
LOL well that’s a good way to look at rejections! I like the picture of passing a potential gift or parcel around until someone “opens” it. Thanks for the encouragement!
loutreleaven
April 27, 2011
Yes, though perhaps your parcel is a better metaphor than my bomb!
Annette Showler
April 27, 2011
Reading a book on a totally different subject; the author encourages us to believe we are “full of untapped potential and have everything within us to achieve that for which we dream”. What a great picture! We simply have to believe in ourselves and our God given gifts and talents and push forward until we succeed.
I’ve been hesitant about `expanding my horizons` but with the help of your webpages I’m finding my confidence.
Thanks Lou!
Matthew Norrish
April 27, 2011
Thanks for sharing your inspiration and enthusiasm Annette… I agree with you, like so much in life it’s a question of faith. So keep the faith y’all!
Wendy Tomlinson
May 3, 2011
Thank you so much for this awesome list. Especially as there are so many accepting email submissions here. Thank you, thank you, thank you…
loutreleaven
May 4, 2011
Aw…! You’re welcome!
Ruth Phelps
May 18, 2011
Like everyone else on this site, I have found your lists a beacon of hope and practicality in an internet of advice, good or bad but no meat! Thank you. Alas, I am another one of the unwashed unpublished but I do have a question.
A local weekly free community magazine with an audience of 54,000 in five small towns (plus the web) has offered to take a 600 word chapter a month from me after they saw my little story. I was over-the-moon but was warned by a local published author that there is nothing to stop a “rogue” author stealing my idea. You’d expect me to say I think it’s original but I do! I haven’t found the topic covered by any children’s books when I’ve googled. I am really worried to go ahead tho’ (even with copyright warning on the issues) as I really want a “proper” publisher and to get paid something!! Should I be concerned? I would love them to have it but I would be SO upset to see the idea in print by someone else! I don’t know what to do. I am just about to write to 3 publishers you’ve recommended, very nervously. Would being in the magazine put publishers off? Your views much appreciated with thanks, Ruth
loutreleaven
May 19, 2011
Hi Ruth! This is a very interesting problem and I do understand your dilemma!
Firstly, congratulations on being given the offer to have your book serialised. It’s a great opportunity to have your work read and to get your name ‘out there’. Although I can understand your concerns about plagiarism, it isn’t that issue I’d be worried about. It’s great to have an original idea but it’s really the way you tell the story that sells the book. Even if someone were to copy your idea, could they do as good a job as you? Hopefully you can say no! A quick way to have instant proof of your authorship of the book is to print it out and post it to yourself. Keep the envelope when it arrives without opening it. You now have a dated copy of your work which can prove when you wrote it.
My concern if I had the dilemma you have is: do I really want to give my ‘baby’ away for free? And if I do, how will it affect my chances of it being published in book form? You may have the problem that publishers will consider it already published. On the other hand, they may love the idea as you will already have potential readers. And it’s quite likely that readers may not catch every episode, and if they like the extract they’ve read, they’ll look for the book. So it could work either for you or against you.
I think perhaps the best thing to do would be to actually speak to the publishers you are planning on submitting to. Give them a ring and ask them if their submission requirements exclude work that is being serialised. You may get some useful feedback which will help you to make a decision. They may love the idea! But if they say it would count against you in terms of submitting to them, as the work would be already published, you need to think about whether you want to save your story for a book or not. If you decide not to go ahead serialising that particular work, why not speak to the editor and say that you are trying to get your book published but you would love to offer him/her a new, original work along the same lines, written especially for their readers. Sell it to them well and you may get a good response – and you’ll certainly have lots of motivation to write each month (think of Dickens and ‘Household Words’!). Good luck with your decision and I hope it turns out to be the right one for you.
Ruth Phelps
May 19, 2011
Hi Lou, thank you so much for taking the time for such a detailed reply. I really, really appreciate it especially as there is noone else I know in the industry, so to speak. I will call the publishers, as you suggest and, if I can speak to anyone, take it from there. Also, I am such a “Doh” brain: it never occured to me to me to ask if the magazine would like another story instead! Great idea. You’re so right. Our stories are very much our babies! This one is, for me but the delivery was a lot less painful! Thank you very, very much. I hope I’ll have some good news eventually.
Rosalind Adam
June 15, 2011
Hi, this is my first visit to your blog and I’ve found this post extremely useful, but more than that I want to thank you for being so very kind and taking your time to share this information with everyone.
I submitted a picture book manuscript to Nosy Crow a few months ago and received an almost instant rejection. I recently submitted another one and have heard nothing so either they’ve become inundated or they really are interested in it.
loutreleaven
June 15, 2011
Hi Rosalind, thanks for your lovely comments. I think Nosy Crow do tend to vary in their response times; I have also had a reply the same day, and on other occasions it has been some weeks. It can be frustrating not knowing if the reason for the hold up is a good one, a bad one, or just there’s a long queue! I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you.
Annette
June 16, 2011
Here is something for you to consider….I recently bought a paper back written by one of the country’s “favourite” authors. It was intended to be a light read amidst my usual array of Christian study and children’s work.
Before the end of the first paragraph, I found myself “editing” sentences and grammar! I tried really hard not to critique but found more and more unnecessary words or lack of style. I got as far as page 8 and gave up as my assessments were spoiling my read!
I found the author’s website and a short 900 word story she had left for the reader to enjoy. I copied and pasted and improved on things as I found necessary.
My question is; how does work of this nature (the story is probably riveting!) get into print? Surely minor edits should be picked up long before then? I would be happy to send a copy of my critique to you for your thoughts. (no names mentioned of course!)
I am not critisizing the author or her talents – merely wondering how such loose work is passed fit for publication? Or am I bang out of order even discussing this?
Kind regards
Annette x
loutreleaven
June 16, 2011
That’s an interesting point you’re making, Annette, and I think it just goes to show how subjective the notion of ‘style’, and editing, can be. As a learner writer, I have been to lots of workshops and most of them teach the same style of editing – cut back adverts and adjectives, pare down descriptions etc. Yet in the right hands a text can soar whether we believe it plays by the ‘rules’ or not. As an example, a lot of people have views about the last few Harry Potter books being overlong and needing editing down; on the other hand, JK Rowling’s work is so loved that the majority of her fans want whatever she can give them (me included!). I’m not a fan of Dan Brown’s prose style although he can certainly tell a good yarn.
It can be very frustrating when you read a published author and think, “Why has that got into print when I haven’t?” However, the answer is not to dwell on that feeling of unfairness but to work doubly hard on your own efforts and show the world that you can do even better!
Annette
June 16, 2011
Lou thanks for your wise words. I totally agree that to harbour negative feelings re being published or not is a waste of good energy and potentially better writing! The episode has actually spurred me on to work harder – as you suggest! Then, when my time does come, I will be even more on track!
BTW I sent 3 short stories off to Womans’ Weekly which were rejected some 12 weeks later. I also sent in 6 in a cardboard tube which got lost! so I have to resubmit, which isn’t so bad, as it has given me another chance to edit and tighten things up a bit. So many disappointment though… methinks us writers would do well to acquire thicker skins along with our ultra sensitivity to life!!
Annette x
PS If you would like to cast your `professional eye` over the short story I critiqued please let me have your email address and I’ll send it across.
Annette
June 16, 2011
Just received a rejection email from Phoenix Yard books re my Sam the Patchwork Whippet. Nice but no thank you…hey ho!
Annette x
Annette
June 21, 2011
I received a reply from the agent of the author whose work I struggled with (see above) and she informs me that the author in question writes in` idiomatic Hiberno-English` which her many millions of readers love. As I have never even heard of this style of writing, perhaps I need to quit while I’m ahead!
Best wishes
Annette x
Anouk
June 29, 2011
Thank you so much for the great information. It is always great to see a blog with such amazingly helpful information.
Pete
July 30, 2011
Hi Lou,
Thanks for the information you have provided! I trawled the net after writing a short story for children, only to find to my horror that nearly all publishers don’t accept unsolicited submissions.
I then stumbled across your blog and I will be submitting my story to every one of them!
My story is in rhyme though, this is the only thing that is now ‘bothering me’. Everything I read about a publisher’s perception towards rhyme seems very negative! Do you know why?
Thanks again,
Pete
loutreleaven
July 30, 2011
Hi Pete, I like your positive attitude – go for it! With regard to rhyming stories, apparently the reason why we writers are warned against submitting them is because if a picture book is successful it is usually translated into other languages. As you can imagine, translating rhyme isn’t easy! So first time writers may find it more difficult to place a rhyming book. On the other hand, you only have to look at writers like Julia Donaldson (The Gruffalo and many more) to see that rhyming books can be a huge success if they are good enough. The only way to find out is to submit and see! Good luck!
Pete
August 10, 2011
Hi Lou,
A week after sending my manuscript to a few publishers (all off your list!), and I’ve had 3 replies! The first was a rejection written in rhyme! The second was a rejection because it didn’t quite fit in with the kind of stuff they usually do. However the third, which I got today, was very positive. They said they loved it, and so did both the Creative and Editorial Directors!
Great news! Apparently it’s going to a big meeting next week, when a decision will be made on publishing. They’ve asked for me to think about what sort of deal I have in mind – whether I would want paying up front for the work, or paid a royalty on the percentage of nett receipt of sales……in other words help!!!!!
If I could trouble you for a bit of advice either on here or via email, that would help me in this unknown territory!
Thanks,
Pete
loutreleaven
August 10, 2011
Wow – that is really exciting news, Pete! I’m so pleased for you! I really hope they say yes! (I also like the sound of the rejection written in rhyme – that’s a rejection with style!)
I really wouldn’t know what to advise you in terms of the contract as its not my area of expertise. I do belong to a very helpful online writers forum called Talkback which I’ve found great at answering questions, whether they be technical or just general advice. You can find it at http://talkback.writers-online.co.uk/index.php. You could also make contact with the Society of Authors who will help you with contracts if you join them; apaprently a lot of authors who don’t have agents find this very useful. They are at http://www.societyofauthors.org/. Sorry I can’t be more helpful but I do wish you the very best of luck, and let me know what happens won’t you!
kim
August 11, 2011
Hi Lou,
Can I just say well done to Pete. This is what I have been waiting for. Some positive news from one of your posts. I wish you the best of luck Pete. This gives us all hope and it’s all down to you Lou for helping your fellow writers!
kingsoflancashirePete
August 12, 2011
Thanks Kim! I echo your comments about Lou’s blog – it’s been sooo helpful! I’ll definitely sign up to The Authors Society if/when I’m made an offer.
I’m still waiting to hear back from 9 of the 12 publishers I submitted to, so I’m trying not to put all my eggs in one basket. It is very exciting though!
I will keep you updated though.
Thanks again,
Pete
Rebecca Emin
August 23, 2011
This is such a wonderfully helpful post, thank you so much for sharing all of these details.
loutreleaven
September 8, 2011
I hope it helps, Rebecca!
Erik Livumbazi Ngoda
August 28, 2011
I have been trying for ages to be published outside Kenya. this is just what I needed. i have already started sending out manuscripts via post and e-mail. Asante sana (thank-you very much)
loutreleaven
August 28, 2011
You’re welcome, Erik, and I hope you have success with your submissions. Now that more publishers are accepting submissions by email it makes life so much easier to submit overseas, and having a wider and more diverse pool of potential writers must also be beneficial to publishers – and us, the readers!
Pete
September 5, 2011
Just a quick update. The publisher in question had their big meeting about the possibility of publishing my story. Got an email this morning to say that they would be looking to publish in 2012, subject to me agreeing to their offer which they would be sending to me by the end of the week!
Exciting times!
Pete
loutreleaven
September 8, 2011
Pete, I am absolutely thrilled for you! Exciting times indeed. Will you keep in touch and let us know how you get on? Perhaps when things are more concrete I could do a post about your success, if you’re willing? It would really encourage others, I’m sure.
Pete
September 8, 2011
Absolutely, I would never have even sent my manuscript off if it wasn’t for your blog, so I’d be more than happy for you to do a post about my success
I’ll keep popping back on here and let you know more about my situation!
hayley west
September 11, 2011
Hi lou
I have a couple of questions if thats ok. my friend is very good at drawing so we came up with a great children’s story idea- i would write it-she would do the illustrations but i have not read much about people submitting books this way ( generally i have read that publishers have their own illustrators) but i feel that my friends art work really compliments the story plus we wanted a project together. Are we fighing a losing battle doing this as i know the whole process of getting a book published is hard enoughas it is!!!
The story is only about 500 words long and is based around a fairy but she is a little bit different and this would be shown through the art work. If i decide to submit the story alone this difference will not come through ( I’m trying to make the story stand out a bit by not using the traditional fairy concept) Do you think then that in the cover letter i should explain this or is this not the ‘done thing’. ( would it look like im telling an illustrator what i want before i have even got my foot through the door!!)
Finally, if i do end up going down the agent route, should i expect to pay a fee or is it more a case of if your good then a good agent wont charge you?
Any advice would be really great
Kind regards
loutreleaven
September 12, 2011
Hi Hayley, thanks for your query. I’m no expert so I can only tell you what I’ve learned from my experiences submitting and from writing conferences. I have to say that authors are often urged not to ask friends to do illustrations, but that assumes firstly that the friend isn’t very good at drawing and so the manuscript will be rejected at the outset, and secondly that the author is determined to have his or her story published with or without the friend rather than as a team. But from what you say it sounds as though you have a talented friend and also that rather than roping your friend in to help you have evolved this book as a partnership. In that case I would encourage you to go ahead with your submission together, especially as you say it needs the illustration to make the story work. You both need to be prepared that the manuscript may be rejected due to the drawings or to the writing and not to lay any blame on the other if this happens. You also need to be sufficiently sanguine about your story to believe that, if you don’t get anywhere with it, you can shrug your shoulders and get on with the next one. If you want this published more than anything then it would be wiser to go alone. But personally I think you sound like a good team.
With regard to agents, you are right in assuming that a good agent won’t charge. Agents make money out of their authors through selling their work and will take a percentage, typically about 15%, of your earnings for their services. If you aren’t earning, they aren’t earning, so anyone that asks for money in any other way is to be avoided at all costs. Picture books are not usually dealt with by agents, but the good news is there are some good publishers who still accept manuscripts directly as you can see from the list on this page, so start submitting and I wish you the best of luck!
hayley west
September 13, 2011
Hello
Thank you so so much for your help and advice, i really appreciate it as i didnt want mu friend to spend ages drawing pictures for no reason!!! Its also great to hear about agencies, there are always a few to con you out there so its good to know!! Thanks again for you help
kind regards
hayley
mel cabezas
October 11, 2011
It seems Oxford University Press are no longer accepting unsolicited manuscripts. Your blog has been very helpful to me, thank you Lou! Best Wishes, Mel Cabezas.
loutreleaven
October 12, 2011
Oh that’s a shame. I’ll amend the list but leave the link on there just in case they revert to the previous submissions policy. Thanks Mel!
shirley
October 13, 2011
Just catching up with all the replies on here. All very interesting.
Wow! Well done to Pete!
His success is giving me hope.
Keep us informed Pete and well done!
Thanks for this blog Lou, very helpful
David LEE
October 16, 2011
hi lou,
firstly thank you for an amazing site. i have written three short stories and have no clue as to how to proceed. With regard to contacting either publishers or agents, is the shotgun approach the acceptable to do things? .i.e sending out to as many as possible. should i focus on one at a time?
any advice for a rank newbie would gratefully received.
yours David
loutreleaven
October 16, 2011
Hi David, thanks for visiting! Short stories can be very hard to place (I’m assuming they are for children). Wyvern Publications and Bridge House are the only two companies I’m aware of at the moment that accept short stories for children (see links on post). But if anyone else knows different please comment! I think the People’s Friend magazine might run children’s stories as well, but they do have a very precise style – they know their readership! Your other alternative could be to search for websites that publish online. You won’t get paid but could get some exposure. Publishers do prefer novels, which is why an agent probably wouldn’t want to take you on for just short stories. Have you thought about writing some more and bringing them together with a narrative, such as in Uncle Montague’s Tales of Terror (Chris Priestly)? These are ghost stories for children but there is also a containing story – as chilling as the rest – about Uncle Montague.
If you do find a market the usual advice is to tailor your story for that market and then send out one at a time. It’s the more professional approach. If you don’t hear anything within six months feel free to send elsewhere. Increasingly though authors are sending similtaneous submissions (submitting to more than one market). It’s a risk but in these days of long waits and tough markets it’s acceptable. Alternatively why not try competitions? The remit is usually broader and there’s some prize money to be had if you’re willing to pay the entry fee (try http://www.prizemagic.co.uk).
Hope this helps.
Sally
October 20, 2011
HI Lou,
I am the typical struggling writer and am working hard to crank out some childrens books…do you have any preference as to the best publishing places to send to that have a broader out look and are open to new authors…any info would be so helpful…your site here is so amazing well done…Thanks Sally
loutreleaven
October 20, 2011
Hi Sally, I too am a struggling writer! I’d say in terms of publishers to look at the websites (see links in list above) and see what they are putting out. Would your book nestle down nicely into their catalogue? A huge part of the success of submitting is matching the right material to the right publisher at the right time. Sometimes newer publishers or small presses can have a ‘broader outlook’ and be more ready to take risks but they will also want something that fits their brand. It’s okay to be a new author with any publisher but I do get the feeling that these days more than ever you need to prove yourself with something that really stands out in order to get your first break. Hope that helps and good luck!
Sally
October 25, 2011
Thanks so much Lou yes it helps somewhat to confirm my already belief that its a hit or miss kind of thing. Kind of being at the right publisher at the right time…..
Judith
October 27, 2011
Many thanks for the useful info
attia benkherif (A H Benjamin)
October 29, 2011
Hi Lou,
Here is another children’s publisher who accepts unsolicited manuscripts either by post or e-mail: QED Publishing, 230 City Road, London, EC1V 2TT, UK. Publisher’s e-mail: zetad@quarto.com
However, authors must enquire first before submitting texts.
Good luck to all.
Best wishes,
Attia
loutreleaven
October 29, 2011
Thank you for that one, Attia. I won’t put them on the main list yet as they do not want unsolicited manuscripts, but as you say they will look at emails with proposals. Anyone contacting them should bear in mind that they specialise in educational resources and mainly non fiction. The website is at http://www.qed-publishing.co.uk.
sheritha singh
October 31, 2011
Hi
Thanks for sharing your list. I’ve sent a few queries. I’m crossing fingers now.
loutreleaven
October 31, 2011
Great – let us know how you get on!
Libby
November 3, 2011
Hi Lou
What an great list!! Thanks so much for taking the time to put it together. I have a question regarding your writing process. How many re-writes/revisions do you usually do before you feel it is good enough to send to publishers? I have written a picture book and I am happy with the story (after LOT’S of revision!!), but feel that it still need’s edititing (I’ve got it to about 700 words).
I read on another well known childrens book author’s website that she often re-writes a book 43 times!!
Thanks!
Libby
p.s I would be happy to hear from any other writers
loutreleaven
November 3, 2011
Good question, Libby! I think in the past I’ve made the mistake of sending out a manuscript before it’s really ready. I’m learning more and more now that it has to be honed and polished so it can be the best it can possibly be. Others have the opposite problem, not knowing when to stop. I think if you can get to the stage where you are confident you have produced a work you are proud of then you are ready. It sounds like you are nearly there with yours; 500 words is supposed to be a good number for a picture book and the more you can edit, the more you will strive for the perfect sentence. Forty-three times does seem a bit excessive though! I’d say at a minimum you should do a first draft, then rest, then second draft, rest, then polish and proof read. The more you can repeat the process the better, but if you can do it brilliantly the first time then fantastic!
Robbin
November 3, 2011
Hi Lou – I just found your blog and its filled with great knowledge. I am a PreK teacher in the U.S.A. of 25 years with numerous original picture story books (some in the editting phase and others just detailed ideas). Your blog has given me hope and direction which I haven’t had in the past. When submitting picture story books; should the manuscript be in story form (words on page 1, 2, etc.) or can it be simply typed out as a regular story…not sure this will make sense. After reading through your replies, my understanding is no illustrations with picture story books. This is hard for me as I know exactly what I want the illustrations to look like and I’ve been told I will have no say in what the finished illustrations will be if I am fortunate enough to be published some day. After years of reading horribly illustrated picture story books I know the importance of well drawn illustrations with children. I know when I have looked at different publishers websites that the quality of their illustrations dictates whether I have any interest in submitting my work to them.
Thanks again,
Robbin
loutreleaven
November 4, 2011
That’s a good question, Robbin. I think you need to specify where the page breaks will be, as this can be very important in determining the pace of a picture book. Whether you use different pages or simply indicate with a few spaces or a number is up to you. (Although it’s always worth checking a publisher’s website in case they specify any particular style of presentation.) With regard to illustrations, I completely understand your point and I would say that, unless you can draw your own illustrations, it would be acceptable to suggest what you have in mind. Perhaps after each section of text you could write “Illustration sugggestion” with a brief outline. That way you are making your ideas clear without appearing to dictate to the publisher.
gerry
November 4, 2011
hi i write childrens funny verse , do you know of any publishers who publish ty
loutreleaven
November 4, 2011
Hi Gerry, this can be a hard one but if you can do it well there are loads of possiblities. How about making one of your verses into a picture book? Or looking for poetry competitions for children’s poetry (they sometimes crop up in Writing Magazine or check out prizemagic.co.uk). Alternatively find some recently anthologies of children’s poetry in your library or local bookshop. Make a note of the publisher and write to them asking if they would consider seeing samples of your work for consideration in future anthologies. It may be a long slog but if you can make children laugh with your verse there should be an opening in the market for you. Another option if you have plenty of verse and wish to showcase some is to create a website or blog (free from wordpress or blogger) and put some poems up. Spread the word and mention your site when you send your poetry off to publishers. (Remember that if your poems appear online they may count as being published so you may not be able to send those ones off.)
gerry
November 5, 2011
ty for the advice , i have lots of verse and so might do the blogger. Ty so much for your advice it has been very useful
Libby
November 4, 2011
Thanks for your fast reply. I agree 43 re-writes does seem a bit over the top….She also mentioned that 97% of manuscripts get rejected..mmm…Well that just encourages me to try my hardest to BE one of the 3% that gets published
I did another edit last night and am down to 650 words. There are only a couple of lines that I am not happy with, but I think that I am more likely to rewrite those rather than delete them. I only want to start sending it to publishers when I am 100% happy that my story is the best that it can be…..But I have given myself the dead-line of 15th November…
eeekkkk Back to work.
Libby
loutreleaven
November 4, 2011
Also remember that probably 95% of those rejected are wrongly targeted or badly presented so probably don’t even get read, so if you are submitting a well presented, well researched (in terms of the publisher’s output) manuscript you put yourself into the 5% who have a chance!
Pete
November 6, 2011
For anyone wanting my input as a soon-to-be-published children’s picture book author
, I simply typed mine into a Word document, with four-line verses and a double space between verses. Font was Courier New, and text size 12. Mine’s all in in rhyme and IIRC it was 723 words long.
It was in the synopsis that I described the way I wanted the story to be read/spoken, and it was also here that I emphasised how I would prefer the story to be presented. My synopsis was just over 400 words long – I tried to keep it to one page.
I then simply looked on Lou’s excellent list to see which publishers accepted manuscripts by email, and sent the whole thing and the synopsis attached to an email that briefly described my experience as an author (ie, none!).
However, at the end of the day, the publishers are usually the expert in these fields. They know what sells (or what doesn’t!), and they will know how their readers will want things illustrated. I was asked if I had an illustrator in mind, but I didn’t – apparently they prefer to pair your work with the appropriate illustrator. From sending the manuscript to receiving an offer for my work outright, I’d say it was a maximum of three months – but I believe that is very quick!
Pete
loutreleaven
November 6, 2011
Thanks Pete! Good advice and we look forward to hearing more on here about your publishing journey!
Jenny Mason
November 16, 2011
Hi, I (just like everyone else) want to say thank you so much for this list! I have spent months looking for appropriate publishers. I have read the ‘writters and illustrators handbook’ from cover to cover looking for insperation for publishing.
I have finally finished my book (it only took 8 years) and sent it to 5 different publishers. i have recieved 2 rejection letters, one a lot nicer than the other. I am on mat leave at the moment so currently spend the day waiting for the postman, then strop around like a teenager when he turns up without the letter i wanted!
It is great to hear about other people in the same situation, and the success stories (Pete, congratulations). Well wish me luck, along with everyone else and once again thank you for the list it was very useful.
Thanks Jenny.xxx
loutreleaven
November 17, 2011
Congratulations on finishing the book, Jenny, and I wish you the very best of luck. Let us know how you get on (and best of luck with your other ‘production’, too!).
dora
November 23, 2011
Just a note to say what a great post Lou, very useful, and that I am impressed by the amount of research you do
Keep up the good work
Regards
Dora
Glen Boulier
December 1, 2011
Thanks Lou, for the info supplied, concerning publishers and such. I’m still getting nowhere in my publishing a kids book, but I’m trying.
Thanks
loutreleaven
December 1, 2011
Keep trying, Glen! The people who are published are the ones who didn’t give up!
hayley
December 8, 2011
Hello Lou
Just a quick one as im getting myself confused!! I have written a children’s story about 500 words long.When I send my query letter off do I enclose the story with the letter or is a query letter simply just that-a query. I know when writing a longer boo you only include 3 chapters but as mine is quite short do i enclose the whole thing?
Once again thanks for any help
loutreleaven
December 8, 2011
Hi Hayley! Yes, enclose the whole thing if it’s that short. The only exception would be if the pubishers specifically state that you should send a query letter first before submitting anything else. Good luck!
Aitoro
December 14, 2011
Love this post very inspiring and useful information. I have produced a multiculutral childrens picture book about a cute little girl Amarapara that teaches children through fun stories about different cultures. I would really love to get it published and will contact the publishers above.
loutreleaven
December 15, 2011
Sounds like a very interesting concept – I wish you all the best with it!
julie steele
December 29, 2011
Thank you Lou. You have created a very informative zone. I love the idea of writers and would-be-writiers (me) feeding back to each other and supporting each other. I have ideas for several different series of stories, one involving animials, one involving a little girl and one involving a little boy. Each ‘set’ of stories have kept the various classes I have covered very entertained. I have been making up stories for my own children, my grandkids and the children I teach – which varies from Reception class through and upto year six. The children ask me for another ‘Gary’ story or ‘Rosie’ story. It was one of my colleagues who suggested getting the stories into print. I didnt think it would be possible but your blog and the other aspiring writiers have given me hope. I will try your suggestions and list. If I dont have any luck, i will still have my stories and children to listen to them. So a great big thank you.
Juls x
loutreleaven
December 30, 2011
It sounds like you have a fan base already, Juls! Good luck with Gary and Rosie and let me know how you get on. I agree it’s definitely worth a try.
LISA JOBE
December 31, 2011
Hi Lou
Thank-you so much for all your great advice you’re a star, also hearing other peoples experiences really helps and gives me hope I have written several childrens picture books but have put off sending them to publishers as they are in rhyme and this seems to be the most difficult to sell however with Petes excellent news I feel newly inspired and I wondered which of the publishers was looking the most favorable for accepting my style of book ( i e rhyme) do you know Lou or Pete please.
Anyway I wish everyone on here a Happy and very prosperous New year.
Lots of love
Lisa
loutreleaven
January 4, 2012
Hi Lisa, glad you like this post. It seems to have grown into something much more than just a list now! I think the best approach for your rhyming stories is to look at the books already published by each publisher; you can do this by either looking on their websites or by downloading their latest catalogue. Sometimes these are available from the site but sometimes if they are hard to find I google the publisher’s name and ‘pdf catalogue’ and that usually finds it as they are normally in a pdf format (a type of document you can read on your pc like an open book, for those who don’t know). If they are already publishing rhyme then you are in with a chance; but if not, maybe your manuscript will change their mind, you never know!
juliette
January 9, 2012
Hello, I have found this page really useful, thank you for taking the time!
Can I ask a quick question? I’ve written and illustrated a children’s picture book,
would you send a full copy as an initial contact or just some of it. Is it legitimate
to worry about your idea being stolen if you send all of it before making an agreement?
Thanks
Juliette
loutreleaven
January 9, 2012
Hi Juliette! I would send the full text as it’s a picture book, but just a few sample illustrations (and not original copies). But check the publisher’s websites to see if they have their own specific requirements. I wouldn’t worry about your idea being stolen if it’s a reputable publisher (hopefully all those on this list are!) but an easy way of proving copyright is to post a copy of your manuscript to yourself and then keep the unopened envelope with the manuscript in when it arrives. It will be postmarked with the date and can prove you wrote the book before anyone else if you ever need to. Hope this helps!
juliette
January 9, 2012
Thanks for your prompt reply
and helpful answer.
Clay Norris
January 10, 2012
I am proud that my tales for children do not affect a condescending or patronizing tone, but I’m under the impression that’s what publishers want. Why do I feel it is incumbent on me to write in a ‘dumbed down’ style? All my stories assume intelligence on the part of my audience; that’s why I write the way I do. Am I alone here? Thanks!
CN : )
loutreleaven
January 11, 2012
It’s great to have your own voice and if you try to change too drastically to fit in with what you think is expected of you, you’re in danger of losing your own style, not to mention being unconvincing. A lot of children’s authors such as JK Rowling simply wrote the story they wanted to write, without aiming it at a specific age group or trying to dumb down (which could be the secret of JK’s success as she appeals to so many age groups). On the other hand it is useful to be aware of specific publisher’s requirements and if a few tweaks of style get you in the door then it’s definitely worth doing. I think it’s all about finding that middle ground that works for both you and your readers.
Clay Norris
January 11, 2012
Thanks, Lou. Hey, once I sent some tales to a prominent NYC agency who specializes in children’s lit. One of the agents wrote me back and said she never wanted to see anything from me ever again. You know what that tells me? That I’m ON TO SOMETHING!
CN : )
Eric Livumbazi Ngoda
January 12, 2012
I think maybe I was just a tad too optimistic and enthusiastic after I came across this blog. I sent manuscripts to most of the publishers suggested,but they don’t bother to even reply and acknowledge receipt!!!!! Maybe its just the African in me,but where is the courtesy!! only templar wrote back to say that their editor was on maternity leave and I would have to wait longer. Then I later received a blank e-mail with just the title of my story as the subject(!!!!!) from them.When I sought further clarification, I got this email,which seemed rather rude to me, telling me how publishers follow procedures..bla,bla.I may be from Africa but I AM a published author and I know all about the publishing procedure.In future I am going to stick to African publishers,thank-you VERY much.
(
loutreleaven
January 13, 2012
Oh dear, that is not good. I sometimes wish all publishers would use the policy ‘If you don’t hear back within x months, please assume you have been unsuccessful’. At least then we would not be left waiting for a reply that never comes. I have heard back from some publishers after more than a year, others the next day, and others not at all. It seems like quite a hit and miss process sometimes. You can understand why authors take matters into their own hands and self publish. Have you tried any agents? They do tend to have a more formal approach to submissions and you may find the process less frustrating!
loutreleaven
January 13, 2012
That is hilarious! You could well be right!!!
Clay Norris
January 13, 2012
I wrote to Meadowside a few days ago. I’m still waiting.
CN : )
Tessa Gallagher
January 16, 2012
Hello Lou,
I have just stumbled on to your site whilst looking for children’s publishers… and I have to say it’s
a very happy accident!
Thank you so much for all your hard work!
I am an ( out of work!) actress and v/o and have always dabbled with writing,- mainly childrens, which I really love. I have several (incomplete!) stories and lots of ideas for more. I have a teaching background and was told by a self publishing house that I had just the right approach for very young and beginning to read children…not patronising with a good extension of vocabulary and repetition etc;
I ‘m wondering if it is appropriate to e-mail the concept and idea for my stories. E.g. I have one idea for alliteration and have written the first and tried it out on my young student of 6 years, quite successfully, I think.
So, who in your experience would be the most suitable to approach who might be interested in helping children’s comprehension of grammatical points?
loutreleaven
January 16, 2012
It sounds like you have some great ideas, Tessa! Have you looked at the Robinswood site? They are an educational publisher who may like your ideas. They have very specific requirements, so read this page to get an idea of what they are after. Good luck!
Mark
January 16, 2012
Hi, I’ve been a follower for some time now and I’m glad I’ve found the site. It’s reassuring (?) to know there are so many aspiring writers out there.
I have written childrens stories for a while though as yet unpublished.
What I would be interested in is how do you acquire the services of an artist to illustrate stories.
I am lucky to know some artists but have not been successful in acquiring their help.
My stories are really for the picure book market and wonder how you get published in that field without having any illustrations?
loutreleaven
January 16, 2012
Nice to hear from you, Mark. You’ll be pleased to know you don’t need to find an illustrator before submitting picture books. In fact, most publishers prefer you not too, as they have their own artists. So submit your manuscript as text only, and if you are accepted the publisher will arrange the illustrations. Hope this helps and good luck with your stories!
Mark
January 16, 2012
Thanks Lou.
I’ll submit to the publishers you had noted previously who accept unsolicited manuscripts.
I write (or attempt to) various types of stories (not just childrens). In fact my most successful (in monetary terms!) has been letter writing to newspapers.
I’m going to keep writing all various types and send away and hopefully someone will give me the nod.:o)
It will be great just to have one book published!
Thanks again for the time in contacting and advising not just me but so many other (as yet) undiscovered writers.
Mark
Rachel
January 17, 2012
Hello there – like all fellow bloggers here, I have been incredibly heartened by the enthusiasm and advice which saturates these pages. Thank you very much everyone. Having read all the posts for the last 6 months and watched Pete’s success unfold, I am even more excited about my new approach to writing – had previously been slogging on and off with an adult family saga that was thoroughly depressing me but have now switched to children’s fiction which cheers me and and makes me laugh every day.
I have recently sent off 5 picture book manuscripts, which form part of a larger series that I am still working on, to 7 publishers. I will keep you updated on my journey!
Keep writing everyone!
Rachel
Pam Harvey
January 24, 2012
This site is really helpful, do you know any Christian Children’s Publishers that will accept unsolicited manuscripts? I have my first manuscript sat on a consideration pile at Pegasus Publishers is this good news?
loutreleaven
January 24, 2012
Hi Pam, have not come across Christian Children’s publishers as yet but will post here if I do; I know there are some Christian publishers out there so there may somewhere you can submit to.
Re the Pegasus publisher, I’m afraid if your manuscript is with Pegasus Elliot Mackenzie then they are a vanity publisher who may offer you a contract but will ask you for money. I hope this isn’t the case but if it happens do not give them any money as they send the same standard reply to everybody in order to get you to sign up. This doesn’t mean your manuscript is bad in any way but if I were you I’d start sending it out again elsewhere. It deserves a chance to be accepted by a good, legitimate, publisher. For more information go to Predators & Editors (you can check out any publisher you’re not sure about on this website), or read the discussions at the Absolute Write Forum or You Write On.
Best of luck with your manuscript – keep submitting!
Pam Harvey
January 26, 2012
Thank you for your advice, I will start sending it out again, but it’s been really difficult to find Publishers who will take Christian stories and non solicited manuscripts
Thanks again for your help.
Judith
January 26, 2012
Hi Lou. Since November I’ve sent several picture book stories (max 35 ko) for small children and for now I’ve had one rejection from Piccadilly and no news as yet from the others I picked from your blog. Taking a pessimistic point of view, as the rejections come in, should I send off other stories straight away to the same publishers as I have several others in the pipeline which might do better, or should I wait? And if so how long in your opinion?
loutreleaven
January 26, 2012
Hi Judith, glad you to hear you are submitting your picture books. There’s still plenty of time to hear back from the other publishers – six months is not unusual. I think it’s okay to submit further to the same publisher after hearing back from them (or if you haven’t heard back after six months you can probably assume it’s a no and resubmit something else then). Good luck and let us know how you get on.
Rachel
January 27, 2012
Hello Lou
I was just wondering what the process was inside a publishing house once you have sent your manuscript in. Do they get dated stamped and read in strict order or is it much more ad hoc than this?
loutreleaven
January 27, 2012
Hello Rachel – the answer is that I don’t know but I will try to find out! In the meantime a very interesting insight into the ‘slush pile’ process is on the website for agents Conville & Walsh, where their reader David Llewellyn shares his thoughts on what he prefers to call the ‘talent pool’. Here’s a link: http://www.convilleandwalsh.com/index.php/literary/submissions/. Scroll down and click on the link to David Llewellyn and it will download a word document.
Erik Livumbazi Ngoda
January 27, 2012
What I am wondering is,will it kill them to just write you a small note to acknowledge that they have your script and are looking at it,or are not able,for whatever reason,to review it,or are not accepting work in its genre,and how long it may take them to review and decide!!!? I have already gotten a response from the Kenyan publisher I submitted some of my work to TWO days ago!! that is how things should be!!! and I receive copies of the review reports on my scripts,and suggestions if any,of how I can improve on my work,or reasons why-if it is not going to be published.I think Kenyan publishers are a step ahead,and I am sticking to them.
Eileen Wharton
January 31, 2012
Lou, how do you find time to write? It must take you hours to reply to all the mail you receive. You’re obviously an extremely generous person. I find everything you write very useful, so thank you for being so giving and good luck with your own writing.
loutreleaven
January 31, 2012
Your comment made me smile – thank you! I’m really enjoying the issues and queries raised on this page and it’s nice to feel we’re all in the same boat and wishing each other the best in our writing journeys.
Nadia
February 3, 2012
Is self published an ideal way to go? My daughter 11yrs old wrote about 15 short stories and I wanted to published them for her, Please I value your opinion, Thanks
loutreleaven
February 3, 2012
Hi Nadia. It’s a lovely idea that you want to publish your daughter’s stories. My recommendation if you would like a nice professional looking copy for her is to go with a print-on-demand company such as Lulu or Blurb. You upload your text, formatted to the correct specifications, to their site, and then if someone wants a copy the company print one off and send it to them, and the customer pays for the printing (you set the price). The customer can be you or anyone else who wants to read it – ideal for giving copies to family and friends. You don’t pay anything unless you want a copy printed. These companies are increasingly used by wedding photographers who want to print off an album or people who have written their family history, as well as authors who want to see what their book looks like in published form. If you want to print a larger supply with a view to selling copies directly yourself, a print-on-demand system can be expensive, and the best route would probably be to talk to your local printers. Be very careful responding to self publishing adverts as you can spend a lot of money! Hope this helps.
quillwielder
February 6, 2012
Thanks so much for the list. This is brilliant! It’s so hard to find a good list of publishers willing to take unsolicited manuscripts.
loutreleaven
February 7, 2012
Hope it helps; let me know if you have any success!
Pam Harvey
February 8, 2012
I think this site is fantastic, I’ve sent a submission to Authentic and awaiting reply, thanks again for all your advice and support, it’s a shame your not a publisher
loutreleaven
February 8, 2012
Aw, thanks! Good luck with Authentic.
Judith
February 8, 2012
Thanks very much for the advice, Ive just had a ‘no’ from Andersen but will start sending out again soon.
loutreleaven
February 8, 2012
Keep going, Judith, you can do it!
Pete
February 8, 2012
Hi Lou, I’m back
OK so my first book is in the pipeline as previously mentioned. However, I have a second story (unrelated) that I think is almost ready to submit, and my publisher has already expressed an interest in reading anything else I have to offer. Would you recommend holding fire until my first one has got onto the shelves and tested the water (so to speak)?
Or do you think I’d be better sending this one off ASAP and seeing what I can get for it, just in case my first one isn’t the roaring success I hope it will be?
Alternatively, should I get an agent to put my second book about the bigger publishers, with the selling-point of already having a book in the process of being published?
Quite a few different approaches there, but I’m concerned about possibly underselling my next story (it remains to be seen if I have already undersold my first!).
Thanks
Pete
loutreleaven
February 9, 2012
Oh no Pete, what a quandary to be in (albeit a nice one)! I can’t really advise you on this. But if in doubt about what to do, it might be worth holding fire for a moment to see how the first book goes. Do you like how the publisher is presenting it? Are you happy with the way it’s being promoted? Do you feel they are doing the best possible job for your book? These are all questions that you can ask yourself as the book comes out and then you will be in a more informed place from which to make a decision. And let us know when you’re published so we can celebrate on here!
Victor Osborne
February 9, 2012
Dear Lou
Publishers ask to see three consecutive chapters of a children’s novel but they don’t always specify that they should be the first three, although that is the assumption. Could l submit the last three? I think the ending of my novel is much more exciting that the beginning because of the way the story builds up. Or would publishers think l was being eccentric and perverse and bin me immediately?
loutreleaven
February 9, 2012
Hi Victor. Without wishing to cause offense I think your second assumption is more likely to be correct! It’s great that your novel has an exciting ending and your synopsis will reflect that. But your book really has to grab people from the word go (or whatever your first word is!). So if you are in any doubt that your first three chapters cannot sweep the reader off their feet then look at them again and make sure they are so exciting that the publisher is desperate to read the rest. Then your last section will really knock them out. Go get ‘em!
kim walsh
February 9, 2012
Nice to hear from you again Pete. Please let us know when your book is published. I for one will be buying it. I think we should all support each other and I wish you every success.
Lou, once again thank you for putting this site together. I visit it frequently and although I don’t know Pete I am very excited for him. Just think it was you that helped him on his journey. : )
loutreleaven
February 9, 2012
Cheers Kim! I never thought when I published this list that I would get so many responses. It’s great to hear from so many writers and, like you say, support each other in our endeavours.
Pete
February 9, 2012
Thanks Kim! I expect many anonymous internet sales from readers of certain blogs haha!
Thanks also Lou, I didn’t really look at it from the promotional point of view, and I suppose there’s a lot more to judge a Publisher on than simply how they printed it! I guess I will hold on with the second one and see how the first one goes…
I have now been told the illustrator’s name, and hopefully I should receive a copy of the front cover any time now! I can’t wait to post a link on here to my book on Amazon
Thanks again!
Pete
loutreleaven
February 10, 2012
I would also love to do an interview with you on this blog when it comes out, Pete!
Pete
February 11, 2012
Any way I can help you in return Lou – just ask!
Brook
February 17, 2012
Hi Lou,
I haven’t long started writing a new story – Rite of the Angel and I already have a publisher interested in it. I’ve wrote about 3 paragraphs and I’ve got to finish it by June time, I’m 12. When I finish it do I send it to that publisher that is interested or to a few different publishers and ask for their opinions?
Thanks ~Brook
loutreleaven
February 17, 2012
Hi Brook, nice to hear from you. It’s great that you’re writing at your age and you sound very focused. I love the title of your story.
There are many examples of authors succeeding when they are young: Eragon author Christopher Paolini wrote the first book of the Inheritance Cycle when he was 15, and Daisy Ashford wrote The Young Visiters, a favourite of mine, at the age of 9.
I think if you’ve got a publisher interested it would be good to send it to them first and then you’ve got the option of the other publishers afterwards. (A quick word to anyone starting submitting: if a publisher asks for money they are not a reputable publisher and you should not deal with them. This does not mean that Brook’s publisher is not reputable but it’s always good to be aware when you are choosing who to submit to. If in doubt, google the publisher name and take a while to read what comes up. Or go to Preditors and Editors and check their lists of publishers.) Another good route if you are young is to enter young people’s writing competitions – they can hone your skills and get you noticed. And some have prizes, which is always a bonus! I hope your story goes well and I look forward to seeing your name on the spine of a bestseller one day. (Or splashed across my Kindle screen!)
Pam Harvey
February 17, 2012
Hi Everyone,
I had no joy at Authentic, and I got a letter requesting a hard copy of my book to send to pegasus publishers but thanks to your advice I won’t be sending that. I may have to consider a literary agent do you have advice about them?
loutreleaven
February 17, 2012
Hi Pam. I have a list of agents for children at . The best place to look for lists of agents is the Writers and Artists Yearbook or the Writers Handbook. They are kept in libraries in the reference section if you’d rather not buy them. Sorry you didn’t have any luck with Authentic but keep trying.
Brook
February 18, 2012
Lou,
Thank you for a quick reply and I will do. I enter competitions, but mainly poetry ones. As I write quite a lot of poems. Recently I won a poetry competition for all ages across the UK and I am getting my poem published in a book. Thank you so much for this website, it helps a lot!
~Brook
loutreleaven
February 20, 2012
Wow! Congratulations on the poetry win, Brook, and keep writing!
scott
February 20, 2012
Great info and tips. I cant thank you enough. It is encouraging for a new author to have this type of resource. Thank you for sharing!
-Scott
loutreleaven
February 20, 2012
You’re welcome Scott and I wish you all the best in your writing journey.
Ruth
February 27, 2012
So happy to see there is HELP out there for fledgling writers in this big Cruel World!THANK YOU, MUCH!
I guess writing is like singing–almost everybody can sing–there are just a few who sing really well!
But writing is different–it is SO personal and not very obvious!So we forge ahead, us dreamers!
Thanks to you, my dear, HOPE is the name of your site!
I have written a children’s story, and I am just about ready to send out into the C.W.!
By the end of the week! Goals, you know!
P.S. Will Pete devulge the name of the Pub. co. accepting his story?
loutreleaven
February 27, 2012
Good luck with your story – hopefully the world will be Big but not Cruel to you! I’m hoping Pete will divulge all when he’s ready, probably nearer to publication date I should think.
Libby
March 1, 2012
I have found another children’s publisher that accepts unscolicited manuscripts.
Child’s Play accepts novelty and picture book manuscripts ( no novels).
They have a very nice catalogue and are worth checking out!!
I hope that this will fit on your already very impressive list.
Libby
loutreleaven
March 1, 2012
Thanks Libby, I will add Child’s Play – well spotted and good news for picture book authors!
mavishb
March 6, 2012
Hi Lou, Thanks so much for the list. I have sent my picture book to a few on the list, but just wanted to double check one thing. At the top of the post you say that only picture book entries are accepted by all publishers ( Who normally don’t accept unsolicited manuscripts). So could I just go ahead and send it to the bigger publishers? Like Macmillan? Even though on their websites they tell you not to???
Thanks
loutreleaven
March 6, 2012
Sorry, my mistake! When I originally wrote the list I didn’t include picture book publishers, but I have since changed it to include them. Sorry to be misleading (I have edited out that bit!). I’m afraid picture books aren’t accepted by publishers unsolicited unless they request them. There is a new publisher to add to the list, Child’s Play (see below) which is encouraging. Good luck with your submissions.
Saarah Yousaf
March 9, 2012
I just want to add that I have found that publishing on kindle seems to be working! So if you can’t find a publisher…maybe try that??
Saarah Yousaf
March 9, 2012
I might have sounded a bit pushy there- I just wanted to suggest it to other writers who read this website! And it’s a really good one, by the way!
loutreleaven
March 9, 2012
Self publishing on Kindle is absolutely exploding at the moment and there is no doubt that some authors are finding considerable success. As more and more writers join them, however, the difficulty is going to be standing out in the crowd. But there is potential there if you have the time and skills to promote yourself effectively.
Saarah Yousaf
March 9, 2012
Hi, I found another publisher that you could add to your list: Shenanigan Books
They sent me a rejection response for my manuscript, however I am not sure whether they do this all the time. You may want to search them before you add them, just to double check info.
Also, I would like to know if Nosy Crow respond to your submissions even if you are not successful? Thank you for your time!
loutreleaven
March 9, 2012
Thanks for that, Saarah. It’s definitely a market to try, but I won’t add it to my list here at the moment as I’m just listing British publishers. Re Nosy Crow, I find their responses can be sporadic; sometimes I’ve heard back very quickly with a no or a request for a full manuscript and at other times I haven’t heard back at all, so I presume it depends how snowed under they are. A good guide to waiting is to leave 3 months before you try somewhere else (unless the publisher’s guidelines say longer).
Saarah Yousaf
March 10, 2012
Thank You!
Ty
March 10, 2012
Great List! I am having a hard time find a place for my activity and experiment book for ages 9-13, any suggestions?
loutreleaven
March 12, 2012
I think you have quite a specialised subject there, Ty, as normally activity books are aimed at a lower age group. But on the other hand you have something new to offer. I would recommend trying Top That!, Robinswood or Egmont, and possibly Templar. They all have different submission requirements so make sure you check out their websites (see links above) before submitting. Good luck. (PS Top That! are keen on books that can be linked to internet activities.)
Lucy Farfort
March 21, 2012
Thank you Lou this list is so very helpful. I’m an illustrator (lucyshappyplace.com) not a writer and I am contacting publishers with the hope to break into children’s book illustration.
I can’t thank you enough this list is a wonderful resource thanks
loutreleaven
March 21, 2012
Just been looking at your website; I love your style, Lucy – retro with a twist! Good luck with the book illustration.
Lucy Farfort
March 21, 2012
Thanks for looking glad you like it
writingforjoy
March 23, 2012
What a blessing this resource is! Thank you SO much.
Kaytie
March 24, 2012
I want to join the many other writers and say a big thank you for providing this information, it has really helped me. I believe that Maverick Books and Neate Publishing are also accepting unsolicited manuscripts, thanks again, Kaytie
loutreleaven
March 24, 2012
Thanks Kaytie, I will check them out! Looks like Neate Publishing aren’t operating at the moment, sadly, but Maverick looks interesting – I’ll add them to the list.
eve
April 2, 2012
This is a great site! Thanks for taking the time to put it together Lou. I’ve written a series of picture books so am going to get submitting them!
Eve
loutreleaven
April 3, 2012
Let us know how you get on, Eve!
junkiegirl
April 3, 2012
Thanks for the info!
My manuscript was just accepted by Mirror Publishing. They hve received an A rating on bbb.com Has anyone heard/used them?
loutreleaven
April 3, 2012
Hi junkiegirl. Check out these links: http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/showthread.php (discussion forum re Mirror Publishing), http://pred-ed.com/pebm.htm (scroll down to Mirror Publishing) and http://web.archive.org/web/20070629045934/http://www.pagesofwonder.com/PRICING.html. The latter seems to be an old version of their website, where they are very upfront about it being a self publishing service (ie you pay them to publish your book). However on their current website (http://www.pagesofwonder.com/index.html) they don’t mention fees. So if I were you I’d be a little wary until you find out more. If you are asked for money then step away – unless you actually want to go down that path. Sorry to come back with negative info – it doesn’t mean your manuscript is bad, just that this might not be the right publisher for you.
Lou
Shanelle
April 23, 2012
Thanks, Lou!
I know what you mean! Their new price is $299. Is it a bad thing when you are asked for money for a POD service? I know one other person who has used them and they had nothing but great things to say, but that’s only one person I know. Would it be better using Lulu or fastpencil? They also charge a fee so I am clueless! LOL!
loutreleaven
April 24, 2012
I know what you mean; it is very confusing! If you actually do want to go down the self publishing route and are happy to pay I’m not the one to ask as I don’t know enough about it, I’m afraid. My concern about Mirror is that they present themselves as a traditional publisher and some people can get misled. Do you not want to try the traditional publishers first? Alternatively I know people who have self published directly on to the Kindle which doesn’t cost them anything other than their time, although you don’t have a physical product.
Shanelle
April 24, 2012
I have submitted to so many without any luck. Some I have received a rejection letter from and others have not responded. I did get one acceptance, but I did not like their contract and did not want to give up total control over my book. I also wanted to use my own illustrator and they would not allow me to. At this point, I feel self publishing may be my only option. I’m ready to do it for 2012!
loutreleaven
April 25, 2012
It sounds like you want more creative control that perhaps you might get going down the traditional route. I wish you luck in your venture!
junkiegirl
April 26, 2012
Thank you for your help, Lou!
Jane
April 10, 2012
Fab blog. Great to have such info and inspiration from other published and hope-to-be-published writers. Thank you.
loutreleaven
April 12, 2012
You’re welcome, Jane.
Pat
April 10, 2012
Hi, I’ve just stumbled across this website, and it is great, in particular as I am so very new to this! I’ve had my book almost complete for a couple of years, and determined to make 2012 the year it gets published.
I am unsure about the copy write, does the publisher do this or should I do before submitting to publisher?
loutreleaven
April 11, 2012
Hi Pat, congratulations on finishing your novel and good luck with getting it published – 2012 could be your year! Don’t worry about copyright for now as the publisher will handle that but if you are at all worried about your copyright being infringed you can always post a copy of the manuscript to yourself, then when it arrives keep it somewhere safe. It will be datestamped by the post office and would be your proof that you are the original author of that work at the time of the date stamp.
Maxine Fawcett
April 12, 2012
Thanks so much for inspiring me again to send out my picture book.
loutreleaven
April 12, 2012
Hope it finds a home; let us know if you are successful!
Tess Smith
April 16, 2012
This is a wonderful thread. I wish everyone the very best of luck!!!! I am a writer myself and I love supporting others on their journey. Very cool!
pipnewbie
April 21, 2012
Wow! my name is Pip and I am new to all this, I have been writing short picture book stories for a few years now and only recently thought about trying to get published. this is the best site/blog thingy I have found. I need look no further for advice and inspiration! I do have one question though. I have 3 stories to submit, can I send them all at one time to an individual publisher or do I send one at a time? any hints gratefully recieved.
loutreleaven
April 22, 2012
Hi Pip, thanks for the nice comments. It’s best to read the publisher’s guidelines carefully and follow them to the letter if you can. (Click on the name of the publisher in the list to be taken straight to the submission guidelines.) Some picture book publishers will accept three stories at a time but if they don’t specify this I would be safe and send one. You can always send the others individually to other publishers at the same time to cast your net a bit wider! Good luck!
pipnewbie
April 23, 2012
Thanks for the advice. I have just realised that I look a bit like my gravatar (on a bad day)!!
pipnewbie
April 21, 2012
I am new to all this so please be patient! been writing for a while but never thought I would think about publishing. Then I found this site! inspiration has hit! one question. I have a few finished stories,can I send them all together or should I send one at a time to a publisher?
Fiona
April 22, 2012
Wow I am so glad to have found you and your incredible information. I shall be coming back again and again to read it all
rachypach
April 24, 2012
Hi Lou – can you help me please? I am desperately trying to write a synopsis for a YA novel I have just finished. This might sound like such an amateurish thing to ask but should it be dead-pan and chronological e,g, The novel follows the plight of …. or should it start with more of a catching strap line e.g a teaser or a blurb? Hope my question even makes sense!
rachypach
April 24, 2012
Hi Lou, I was hoping you might be able to help me. I am in the painful process of writing a synopsis for a YA novel I have just completed. Ideally, should it be all catchy, wow – in your face as if you were trying to sell your book on the shelves? Perhaps more like a teaser or a blurb? Or should it be more dead pan and chronological so that the reader can clearly follow the timeline of one’s story? Any advice much appreciated. Thanks Rachel
loutreleaven
April 24, 2012
Hi Rachel. I feel your pain! Synopses are horrible things to write. They should be chronological, basically so that the publisher or agent knows what’s going to happen and can see if your plot stands up to scrutiny. It doesn’t do any harm to add a bit of pizzazz if you can, to showcase your style, but the main thing is to get the plot down clearly. No teasers and you have to reveal all twists and turns! See my post http://loutreleaven.wordpress.com/2010/09/13/how-to-write-a-synopsis/ for more details and go to the links at the bottom for some great articles on getting through this tiresome and tricky task!
rachypach
April 24, 2012
Excellent advice and articles included. You really are on call for author emergencies 24/7 it seems! Thanks.
McOidle@hotmail.co.uk
April 24, 2012
This may sound totally silly but is it best to have a manuscript completley finished before submitting manuscripts that only require two or three chapters?
loutreleaven
April 25, 2012
It’s a gamble and I would advise not, especially as, in my experience, when I finish writing a novel I end up changing quite a bit of the beginning! It is acceptable when submitting non fiction books as they are quite often completed after they are commissioned, but in the case of fiction it’s best to be prepared, especially in these days of fast email submissions (I was once asked to send the complete manuscript the same day as I submitted the sample chapters!).
McOidle@hotmail.co.uk
April 25, 2012
Thank you, I shall make sure i’m all finished up before i submit any anywhere! this list is amazing by the way, its going to be crazy helpful when my manuscript is finished XD
Lorraine Joanne Ward
May 1, 2012
Thanks for this list. Been writing Childrens Stories and was using a book with Publisher in it. Your list is better to use than a book as you tell if they want your stories to look at, instead of trying to find out in the book. Sending my books to some of the ones on here. Will let everyone know how it goes. Thanks Again.
loutreleaven
May 4, 2012
Yes, do let us know how you get on, Lorraine.
gwen
May 3, 2012
Hi Lou,
I am also grateful for your encouraging advice and list of publishers. It is such a welcome change reading positive feedback and words of encouragement. I am very new to the world of trying to get something published and I am finding it somewhat disheartening when I feel drawn back to my school days, reading of all the rules and regulations required by publishers ever before they have seen any of my work. Are they in such a position to be so fussy? Are there the most amazing amount of well-written submissions that they feel they need to create such an elitist selection, or is there a lot of rubbish they need to sift through?
I am currently half way through a fantasy novel for kids. I decided to send out some feelers to see if anything would bite. It is far more difficult than I imagined. That is why your list was invaluable. I feel there is at least one person on my side. Thank you.
loutreleaven
May 4, 2012
What a nice comment Gwen, thank you. I know how you feel; it can seem as if everything is stacked against you. When I feel like this I remind myself that people are still getting published and there is no reason why it shouldn’t be me, or you!
Although there are a lot of requirements when you submit, you can use these to your advantage as there will always be people who either don’t read the guidelines or submit blindly without doing the necessary research. If you can produce a top quality, professional submission which meets all their requirements you have overcome the initial hurdles and are much more likely to be read. In addition you have shown the publisher that you are able to produce work that meets their standards and style. So don’t let it put you off but see it as a way to prove to the publisher that you are their sort of author! Good luck.
gwen
May 4, 2012
Well, I have to admit that some advice listed has been welcomed and taken on board. I just wish that submission pages on websites began with something like…
“We would love to read your efforts. We understand how much blood, sweat and tears are put into each piece of work….” – something to that effect. That would be nice. Thanks for your prompt reply and your words of wisdom.
Rob Parker
May 13, 2012
Thank you for this fantastic resource. Reassuring to know there are genuine people willing to help others – was about to give up!!
Rob
Rob Parker
May 13, 2012
Hi again Lou,
I’ve read that to copyright ideas is virtually impossible and that, if sending by post, I should merely keep a note of who I sent it to and on which date. Is this enough to ‘protect’ my idea/story? Is it the same with email (obviously the proof of dates etc is clearer here – i guess!?)
Thanks
Rob
loutreleaven
May 13, 2012
Hi Rob, thanks for your nice comment. I don’t know if you’ve seen my suggestion further up the comments thread, but one idea to help protect copyright is to send a copy of your manuscript to yourself and, when it arrives, do not open but keep somewhere safe. As it is datestamped it will be a way of proving that you are the originator of the material. However, I personally wouldn’t worry too much. There are few original ideas but many original ways of writing. Keep a solid record of everything you send anyway.
jane allen
May 13, 2012
Hello Lou, this looks like a really useful resource, thanks!
I’m an aspiring writer myself but never seem to get very far…my 13 year old son however has started seriously writing, he’s got some great ideas and a couple of chapters for what I would call older teenage scifi/fantasy/thriller genre. I am actually jealous of his writing ability it’s so good! I’d like to know if there’s any age limit to having a book published as I’d like to submit his current manuscript to a publisher?
Thanks
Jane
loutreleaven
May 14, 2012
Absolutely not, Jane – submit away. And mention his age as I think it’s a selling point. Also have a look at Cast of Wonders who do podcasts of sci-fi/fantasy stories and actively encourage young writers. I will be writing a blog post on them with more information very shortly!
jane allen
May 14, 2012
Thanks Lou, Cast of Wonders looks interesting too, let’s see how we get on…
Sarah
May 14, 2012
Hi Lou,
Thanks for such a great list! I have been following queries and comments above and have found them so useful!! I have recently submitted a first manuscript…and intend on writing an entire serires based on the same character. I was wondering, does it depend on the publisher whether the book is a success – their publicity and marketing skills?
loutreleaven
May 14, 2012
It’s really a partnership between the author and the publisher. A good publisher will certainly push your book but you are expected to do a lot to contribute such as book signings, author interviews (real or virtual), contacting your local paper, using social networking and so on. The more you can do to help, the better. It’s useful to have a good look at the publisher you are submitting too and seeing how they promote their books and if you are happy with their approach.
Colin
May 15, 2012
Hi Lou
I’ve just discovered this blog and have found it very useful-thank you. I would like to know how you manage to get any other writing done when you must spend so much time replying to all these comments. Have you discovered a parallel universe where there are more than 24 hours in a day? Thanks again!
loutreleaven
May 15, 2012
Hee hee! If I do discover such a universe I will be sure to share it on here with you all!
Debbie
May 19, 2012
Hello Lou. Thank you for the great advice. I live in the USA and have written three picture books. Would you suggest submitting them at the same time to each publisher, or to send one at a time and wait on the others? Or to send each by separate post? I was wondering if sending them together might make me look like a more serious writer, even though unpublished as yet. Thank you.
loutreleaven
May 20, 2012
Hi Debbie! I would submit them one by one unless the publisher specifically says they accept more than one at a time. Several do. Good luck!
Debbie
May 23, 2012
Thank you Lou!
Margaret Franklin
May 20, 2012
Thank you so much for your excellent web pages. They are extremely helpful and informative. Is there anything I can do for you in return??
loutreleaven
May 21, 2012
Thanks Margaret! Just spread the word!
Mrs Brown
May 21, 2012
Hello Lou, I finally had a chance to go through you’re blog and I really appreciate all the advice and links for aspiring writers – thanks for sharing! Have you done any posts about writing competitions for writing for children?
loutreleaven
May 21, 2012
Hello Mrs Brown! I like your blog at http://mrsbrownsbooks.blogspot.co.uk/. I have done some posts about competitions in the past but they are closed now; the competition still open at the moment I am working on is the writing for children competition at The Winchester Writers’ Conference. You don’t have to attend the conference to enter and, although the entry fee is quite high, it’s a good way of ‘testing the market’ with the first 500 words and synopsis of a book for three different age groups (closes 1 June). There is also the Greenhouse Funny Prize which I will be blogging about very shortly!
oceanblogger
May 24, 2012
Hi Lou, thanks for the great list! I also wanted to say that Penguin, Pan Macmillan, Allen & Unwin, Dorrance, and Raider Publishers (who accepted my manuscript for publication but wanted me to pay so I declined) all also accept unsolicited manuscripts. Thanks again for the list.
loutreleaven
May 24, 2012
Hello Ocean! I would also steer clear of Olympia Publishers and Dorrance as they will also ask for money. A note for the UK readers: Penguin and Pan Macmillan in Australia accept unsolicited manuscripts but they don’t over here, apart from the Macmillan New Writing scheme and the occasional special limited ‘open door’ event at Penguin. Allen and Unwin, for those who don’t know, are Australia’s largest independent publisher and they welcome unsolicited material if you submit through their online process.
Jennifer Libby-Barnes
May 30, 2012
This was the most helpful sight I have ever come across! Thank you!:)