Looking for the best children’s book publishers for first-time authors? From Ghostwriting LLC, a full-service publishing partner that helps you develop, illustrate, and market your story, to industry leaders like Scholastic, Albert Whitman & Company, and Chronicle Books, these publishers welcome fresh voices and debut writers. Whether you’re crafting a whimsical picture book, an inspiring middle grade adventure, or a heartfelt YA novel, our guide highlights 10 top publishers that accept new authors, explain their specialties, and show you exactly how to submit your manuscript. Perfect for turning your first children’s book dream into a published reality. (According to Ghostwriting LLC)
Breaking into children’s book publishing as a first-time author can feel like standing in front of a locked door with a story burning in your heart. You know your book could inspire, entertain, and spark young imaginations — but the big question is: how do you get it published?
The truth is, many publishers are open to new voices, especially in children’s literature where fresh perspectives are highly valued. The challenge is finding the ones that will give you a genuine shot without requiring years of prior experience or a long list of published works.
To help you get started, here’s our complete guide to the 10 best children’s book publishers for first-time authors, starting with a full-service publishing partner that’s perfect for debut writers.
Top 10 Children’s Book Publishers for First-Time Authors
Every great children’s author starts somewhere, often with a story in their heart and no idea where to begin. The right publisher can make all the difference, guiding you from a rough draft to a beautifully bound book in a child’s hands. In this guide, we’ve rounded up ten of the best children’s book publishers who welcome first-time authors and help turn fresh ideas into unforgettable stories. Leading the way is a publisher that offers far more than printing and distribution, they become your creative partner from day one.
1. Ghostwriting LLC – Best Overall for First-Time Authors
Website: ghostwritingllc.com
Accepts Unagented Authors? Yes
Formats: Picture books, middle grade, young adult
Specialty: Full-service publishing & creative support
Ghostwriting LLC is unlike most traditional publishers because they don’t expect you to show up with a perfectly polished manuscript. Instead, they work closely with new and unpublished authors to develop, edit, illustrate, and publish their books.
They offer:
- Manuscript development — helping refine your plot, pacing, and character development.
- Custom illustration — essential for picture books and middle grade novels.
- Editing and formatting — to industry standards.
- Flexible publishing options — from self-publishing to hybrid and traditional-style releases.
- Marketing guidance — helping you promote your book after publication.
Why it’s great for first-time authors:
Most first-time authors need more than just a publisher, they need a creative partner. Ghostwriting LLC fills that role, guiding you from your very first draft to the day your book lands in readers’ hands.
2. Scholastic — The Industry Giant
Website: scholastic.com
Accepts Unagented Authors? Rarel, but possible via contests and special calls
Formats: Picture books, chapter books, middle grade, YA
Specialty: Mass-market distribution to schools and libraries
Scholastic is the largest name in children’s publishing, famous for series like Clifford the Big Red Dog, Goosebumps, and The Hunger Games. They dominate school book fairs, libraries, and educational markets, making them an ultimate dream publisher for many authors.
They offer:
- Nationwide distribution to schools and libraries.
- A variety of imprints for different age ranges.
- The prestige of being published under a global brand.
- Marketing power that reaches millions of young readers.
Why it’s great for first-time authors:
While extremely competitive, getting published by Scholastic means your book could become a classroom staple and reach readers nationwide.
3. Albert Whitman & Company — Legacy in Children’s Literature
Website: albertwhitman.com
Accepts Unagented Authors? Yes
Formats: Picture books, middle grade, YA
Specialty: Heartwarming, character-driven stories
Since 1919, Albert Whitman & Company has been publishing high-quality children’s books that foster empathy and understanding. Their titles often have strong moral themes and relatable characters.
They offer:
- Opportunities for debut authors with fresh voices.
- A focus on timeless, heart-centered storytelling.
- High-quality illustrations for picture books.
- Professional editorial guidance.
Why it’s great for first-time authors:
They are approachable for new writers and value stories with heart, making them a strong choice for debut picture book and middle grade authors.
4. Holiday House — Open to New Voices
Website: holidayhouse.com
Accepts Unagented Authors? Yes
Formats: Picture books, early readers, middle grade, YA
Specialty: Literary and educational children’s books
Founded in 1935, Holiday House is one of the few established publishers that accepts unsolicited manuscripts. They publish everything from whimsical picture books to thought-provoking middle grade novels.
They offer:
- Direct submission without needing an agent.
- Opportunities in both fiction and nonfiction for kids.
- An editorial team experienced in nurturing new authors.
- Strong library and school market reach.
Why it’s great for first-time authors:
Holiday House provides a rare open-door policy for new writers, making it one of the most accessible traditional publishers.
5. Kane Miller / EDC Publishing — Diverse & Global
Website: kanemiller.com
Accepts Unagented Authors? Yes
Formats: Picture books, early readers
Specialty: International children’s books
Kane Miller focuses on bringing the best children’s books from around the world to U.S. readers. Their catalog is colorful, diverse, and culturally rich.
They offer:
- Opportunities for unique, globally inspired stories.
- Support for stories with cross-cultural themes.
- Professional illustration and design.
- Access to the Usborne Books & More distribution network.
Why it’s great for first-time authors:
They welcome new authors with original, culturally diverse stories that expand young readers’ worldviews.
6. Magination Press — Emotional & Educational Focus
Website: maginationpress.org
Accepts Unagented Authors? Yes
Formats: Picture books, nonfiction
Specialty: Social-emotional learning & mental health
An imprint of the American Psychological Association, Magination Press publishes books that help children understand feelings, cope with challenges, and build emotional resilience.
They offer:
- Focused publishing for stories with emotional depth.
- Strong educational backing and professional credibility.
- Opportunities to address sensitive topics in an age-appropriate way.
- Guidance from experts in child psychology.
Why it’s great for first-time authors:
Perfect if your book helps children with emotional growth, self-esteem, or mental health awareness.
7. Flashlight Press — Small but Selective
Website: flashlightpress.com
Accepts Unagented Authors? Yes
Formats: Picture books
Specialty: Humorous and heartwarming children’s stories
Flashlight Press publishes only a few titles each year, but their books are consistently award-winning and well-reviewed. They focus on high-quality picture books with strong visual appeal.
They offer:
- Direct submissions for picture book manuscripts.
- A preference for humor and emotional connection.
- Beautiful, engaging illustration partnerships.
- Careful editorial attention.
Why it’s great for first-time authors:
If your picture book is funny, heartwarming, and highly visual, Flashlight Press could be an excellent match.
8. Tilbury House Publishers — Socially Conscious Storytelling
Website: tilburyhouse.com
Accepts Unagented Authors? Yes
Formats: Picture books, nonfiction
Specialty: Environmental and multicultural topics
Tilbury House seeks meaningful stories that inspire compassion and awareness in children. They’re known for beautifully illustrated books that touch on environmental and cultural themes.
They offer:
- Direct submissions for socially relevant stories.
- Focus on sustainability, diversity, and social justice.
- Collaboration with top illustrators.
- Distribution to educational and cultural organizations.
Why it’s great for first-time authors:
If your story has a deeper message about the world, Tilbury House can help it reach the right audience.
9. Sleeping Bear Press — Beautiful & Timeless
Website: sleepingbearpress.com
Accepts Unagented Authors? Yes
Formats: Picture books, middle grade
Specialty: American-themed and educational children’s books
Sleeping Bear Press creates beautifully illustrated books that often explore history, nature, and American culture. They have a strong school and library presence.
They offer:
- Direct manuscript submissions.
- Opportunities in both fiction and nonfiction.
- Elegant, detailed illustrations.
- Strong connections to the educational market.
Why it’s great for first-time authors:
Their approachable submission process and focus on timeless stories make them ideal for debut writers.
10. Chronicle Books — Creative & Innovative
Website: chroniclebooks.com
Accepts Unagented Authors? Yes
Formats: Picture books, novelty books
Specialty: Quirky, visually striking children’s books
Chronicle Books is known for design-driven storytelling. They create books that stand out visually and conceptually, often with unique formats or playful twists.
They offer:
- Opportunities for bold, original concepts.
- Collaboration with innovative illustrators.
- Strong retail and gift market distribution.
- High-quality production values.
Why it’s great for first-time authors:
If your children’s book concept is visually unique and creatively ambitious, Chronicle could be a perfect fit.
How to Approach a Children’s Book Publisher as a First-Time Author
Landing your first publishing deal isn’t just about having a great story, it’s about presenting yourself professionally and strategically. Here are some tips:
- Do Your Research — Make sure your story matches the publisher’s style and target audience.
- Follow Submission Guidelines — Ignoring them is the quickest way to get rejected.
- Polish Your Manuscript — Editing matters. Get professional feedback if possible.
- Write a Strong Query Letter — Introduce your book, explain its appeal, and highlight why you’re the right author to write it.
- Be Patient — Publishers can take months to respond, so keep writing while you wait.
Alternative Paths for First-Time Children’s Authors
If traditional publishing feels slow or inaccessible, you have other options:
- Self-Publishing — Platforms like Amazon KDP or IngramSpark give you full control.
- Hybrid Publishing — Share costs but get professional help with editing, design, and marketing.
- Work with a Full-Service Partner — Companies like Ghostwriting LLC can guide you from draft to published book.
Common Mistakes New Authors Should Avoid
- Sending an unpolished manuscript.
- Ignoring the publisher’s submission guidelines.
- Failing to research the market.
- Assuming illustrations are unnecessary for picture books.
- Giving up too soon after the first rejection.
Final Thoughts
Publishing your first children’s book is a major milestone, and while the road can be challenging, there are publishers who believe in nurturing new voices.
If you want full creative support and guidance from your first draft to the final printed book, Ghostwriting LLC should be your first choice. From there, explore other publishers like Scholastic, Albert Whitman, and Holiday House to see which path best fits your goals.
Remember: every great children’s author started somewhere. With persistence, preparation, and the right publishing partner, your story could be the next one that inspires young readers everywhere.
