130 Children’s Book Publishers Accepting Unsolicited Manuscripts in October 2025

Finishing a children’s book is no small feat — congratulations! Whether your story is filled with magical adventures, heartwarming friendships, or lessons that make kids giggle and grow, the next big step is finding a publisher who believes in your work.

Luckily, there are still many children’s book publishers that accept unsolicited manuscripts, meaning you can submit directly without a literary agent. Below are publishers open to submissions as of October 2025, complete with descriptions, genres, and notes to help you find your perfect fit.

1. Ghostwriting LLC

A creative publishing and editorial team passionate about helping authors bring meaningful children’s stories to life. They publish a range of children’s and YA titles that emphasize character growth and emotional connection.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade, YA
Word count / Notes: Accepts both fiction and nonfiction; prefers manuscripts with clear narrative arcs and strong moral themes. Submit via email with a cover letter and sample chapters.

2. Lantana Publishing

This UK-based indie press champions diverse voices and global storytelling. Their books often feature cultural bridges and inclusive perspectives for young readers.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade fiction
Word count / Notes: Typically over 4,000 words. Accepts submissions from underrepresented authors year-round.

3. Vox Ghostwriting

Known for its storytelling craftsmanship, Vox Ghostwriting welcomes imaginative children’s manuscripts with positive, socially aware messages. They work with authors who want to refine their voice and share powerful ideas with young audiences.
Genre: Picture books, educational fiction, YA
Word count / Notes: Accepts illustrated and narrative submissions. Email query with sample chapters or full manuscript.

4. Cardinal Rule Press

A small but mighty press that focuses on meaningful picture books about kindness, community, and empathy. They release only a few titles each year to give every book their full attention.
Genre: Realistic picture books (ages 4–11)
Word count / Notes: Up to 1,000 words. Strong preference for stories that inspire positive behavior and emotional awareness.

5. Charlesbridge Publishing

A respected U.S. publisher with a long history of producing educational and entertaining children’s books. Their list includes award-winning fiction and nonfiction titles for kids of all ages.
Genre: Picture books, early readers, middle grade, YA
Word count / Notes: Accepts unagented submissions. Avoid overly familiar topics or predictable rhyming.

6. Holiday House

One of the oldest independent children’s publishers in the U.S., Holiday House is known for strong storytelling and timeless appeal. They publish across age groups and genres.
Genre: Fiction & nonfiction for children and teens
Word count / Notes: Accepts submissions seasonally. Seeks polished manuscripts with engaging characters.

7. Flashlight Press

This boutique publisher specializes in heartfelt, humorous picture books that resonate with both children and parents. They love relatable, real-life themes told with warmth and wit.
Genre: Picture books (ages 4–8)
Word count / Notes: Under 1,000 words. Must have universal appeal and emotional connection.

8. Arbordale Publishing

A leader in educational children’s books, Arbordale brings science and nature to life through storytelling. Their titles often align with STEM topics and school curricula.
Genre: Science, nature, and math picture books
Word count / Notes: Factual accuracy is key. Include a science-based theme or educational tie-in.

9. Annick Press

A well-loved Canadian publisher dedicated to stories that challenge, inspire, and expand young readers’ worlds. They publish everything from whimsical picture books to bold middle grade fiction.
Genre: Picture books, early readers, middle grade, graphic novels
Word count / Notes: Open to international submissions. Strong preference for diverse voices and original perspectives.

10. Blue Dot Kids Press

With a mission to connect kids to the world around them, Blue Dot publishes books that blend environmental awareness with empathy. Their titles are thoughtful and beautifully illustrated.
Genre: Board books through middle grade
Word count / Notes: Focus on eco-conscious, emotionally intelligent stories.

11. Bushel & Peck Books

A family-run publisher creating books that nurture curiosity and wonder. They love stories that make learning fun and help kids see the beauty in everyday life.
Genre: Picture books, early readers, middle grade
Word count / Notes: Opens submission windows throughout the year. Accepts heartfelt fiction and nonfiction.

12. Sleeping Bear Press

A long-established publisher known for beautifully illustrated picture books and regional stories. They also release strong nonfiction titles for classrooms and libraries.
Genre: Fiction & nonfiction for children
Word count / Notes: Accepts unsolicited manuscripts. Focused on educational and literary quality.

13. Creston Books

An independent press run by passionate book people who believe in timeless storytelling. Creston celebrates diverse voices and emotional depth in every project.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade
Word count / Notes: Accepts unagented submissions. Prefers layered stories with strong child appeal.

14. Enchanted Lion Books

This Brooklyn-based press is known for its stunning design and poetic storytelling. Their books often feel like art pieces as much as literature.
Genre: Illustrated books, picture books, translated works
Word count / Notes: Open to author-illustrators. Seeks lyrical, visually rich stories.

15. Pelican Publishing

A regional press with roots in New Orleans, Pelican has a soft spot for cultural, historical, and educational children’s books. They value storytelling that celebrates heritage and discovery.
Genre: Picture books, educational nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Accepts unagented submissions via mail or email.

16. Pan Macmillan Australia (Children’s Imprints)

Part of the global Macmillan family, this division publishes acclaimed children’s and YA titles across genres. They actively encourage submissions from new voices.
Genre: Junior, middle grade, YA
Word count / Notes: Accepts unsolicited manuscripts through their Australian submissions portal.

17. O’Brien Press

Ireland’s largest independent publisher, O’Brien Press champions Irish voices and stories that travel well beyond its shores. Their children’s line includes picture books and middle grade fiction.
Genre: Fiction & nonfiction for children
Word count / Notes: Open internationally. Prefers stories with cultural or emotional authenticity.

18. Soaring Kite Books

This inclusive press celebrates diversity, representation, and joy. They publish uplifting stories that reflect real-world experiences of all children.
Genre: Diverse picture books & YA
Word count / Notes: Accepts direct submissions via online form. Encourages BIPOC authors and illustrators.

19. Kids Can Press

One of Canada’s best-known children’s publishers, Kids Can Press produces award-winning picture books and innovative nonfiction. Their titles are smart, fresh, and kid-centered.
Genre: Fiction & nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Accepts unagented submissions. Avoid rhyming manuscripts unless rhythm is exceptional.

20. Sourcebooks Jabberwocky

A major player in the U.S. children’s market, this imprint publishes everything from laugh-out-loud picture books to heartfelt YA novels. They’re known for championing bold voices.
Genre: Children’s, middle grade, YA
Word count / Notes: Query + sample chapters via online form. Focus on originality and emotional resonance.

21. Albert Whitman & Company

A century-old publisher responsible for beloved classics like The Boxcar Children, Albert Whitman continues to champion quality storytelling for young readers.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade, YA
Word count / Notes: Up to 70,000 words. Accepts direct submissions with query and manuscript sample.

22. Barefoot Books

Known for its vibrant, globally inspired picture books, Barefoot Books celebrates creativity, connection, and community through storytelling.
Genre: Picture books, nonfiction for children
Word count / Notes: Seeks multicultural and inclusive themes; prefers stories that work well aloud.

23. Capstone Press

Capstone publishes accessible books for schools and libraries, helping reluctant readers fall in love with reading.
Genre: Early readers, educational nonfiction, graphic novels
Word count / Notes: Open to author submissions; prefers curriculum-aligned topics.

24. Chronicle Books

A major independent publisher known for creative and beautifully designed titles that stand out on any bookshelf.
Genre: Picture books, novelty books, select middle grade
Word count / Notes: Unsolicited submissions accepted by mail; no email submissions.

25. Clavis Publishing

This international publisher connects European and U.S. markets, bringing thoughtful, beautifully illustrated stories to children around the world.
Genre: Picture books, early readers
Word count / Notes: Accepts English-language submissions. Prefers simple text with emotional resonance.

26. Tilbury House Publishers

A Maine-based press specializing in picture books that blend storytelling with social, cultural, or environmental awareness.
Genre: Picture books, nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Focus on stories with educational value and strong moral lessons.

27. August House

A storytelling-focused press that celebrates folklore, world tales, and diverse voices through modern retellings.
Genre: Folktales, picture books, middle grade
Word count / Notes: Accepts unagented submissions; prefers narrative collections and retold tales.

28. Magination Press (APA)

The children’s imprint of the American Psychological Association, Magination publishes books that help kids understand emotions, relationships, and mental health.
Genre: Picture books, nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Prefers manuscripts addressing emotional or psychological topics with accuracy and care.

29. Eerdmans Books for Young Readers

A faith-rooted but open-minded publisher known for thoughtful, literary children’s titles that explore empathy and meaning.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade fiction
Word count / Notes: Accepts unsolicited manuscripts via email. No overtly religious preaching required.

30. Free Spirit Publishing

Dedicated to social-emotional learning, Free Spirit produces empowering books for children, teens, and educators.
Genre: Nonfiction, picture books with SEL focus
Word count / Notes: Welcomes proposals from educators and child development experts.

31. NorthSouth Books

An international publisher known for stunning artwork and timeless tales that appeal to global audiences.
Genre: Picture books, illustrated fiction
Word count / Notes: Accepts submissions from author-illustrators; prefers poetic or visual storytelling.

32. Pajama Press

This Canadian publisher releases beautifully written and illustrated books with emotional depth and cultural diversity.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade
Word count / Notes: Accepts unagented submissions. Strong preference for stories with heart and empathy.

33. Quarto Kids

Part of Quarto Group, this imprint is behind many bestselling nonfiction and creative learning books for children.
Genre: Nonfiction, activity books, picture books
Word count / Notes: Submissions accepted via their website; prefers innovative, educational ideas.

34. Red Deer Press

A respected Canadian press publishing literary children’s books with strong emotional themes and local flavor.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade, YA
Word count / Notes: Prefers contemporary and realistic fiction; accepts electronic submissions.

35. Ripple Grove Press

A family-run independent press that publishes only a few titles a year, focusing on quiet, meaningful picture books.
Genre: Picture books
Word count / Notes: Under 1,000 words. No rhyming manuscripts; gentle, emotional stories preferred.

36. Tilbury House Nature Imprint

Dedicated to picture books that explore the beauty of the natural world and environmental awareness.
Genre: Nature-themed picture books
Word count / Notes: Prefers lyrical text and scientific accuracy. Submissions by email.

37. Templar Books

A UK-based imprint known for imaginative, design-forward books that often blend storytelling with artistry.
Genre: Picture books, novelty books, illustrated fiction
Word count / Notes: Accepts submissions through their UK office; best for illustrators and author-illustrators.

38. Usborne Publishing

One of the most recognizable children’s publishers in the UK, Usborne produces high-quality, educational, and engaging books.
Genre: Nonfiction, activity books, early readers
Word count / Notes: Accepts submissions directly through its website for specific categories.

39. Walker Books

An award-winning publisher with a reputation for stunning picture books and strong narrative voices.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade, YA
Word count / Notes: Accepts unsolicited manuscripts via online portal; competitive but open to debut authors.

40. Peachtree Publishing Company

This U.S. publisher has built a reputation for producing beautifully illustrated, thoughtful stories across children’s genres.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade, YA
Word count / Notes: Accepts submissions via email. Prefers manuscripts with a clear sense of purpose and place.

41. Candlewick Press

One of the most acclaimed independent publishers in the world, Candlewick publishes award-winning and bestselling books for young readers.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade, YA
Word count / Notes: Accepts unsolicited manuscripts by mail. Prefers unique voices and literary quality.

42. Clarion Books (HarperCollins)

A prestigious imprint known for acclaimed picture books and middle grade novels that balance warmth and depth.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade
Word count / Notes: Occasionally open to unsolicited submissions during set windows; check website.

43. Little Bee Books

An energetic, modern publisher focusing on fun, inclusive stories for kids. They partner with both new and established authors.
Genre: Picture books, board books, early readers
Word count / Notes: Accepts unsolicited manuscripts; humor and diversity are a plus.

44. Page Street Kids

This U.S. imprint produces striking picture books and middle grade novels with literary flair and creative design.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade
Word count / Notes: Accepts submissions via email. Encourages underrepresented authors to submit.

45. Clavis USA

An extension of the Belgian publisher, Clavis USA brings European storytelling sensibilities to the North American market.
Genre: Picture books
Word count / Notes: Accepts English-language submissions; warm, emotional stories preferred.

46. Owlkids Books

A beloved Canadian publisher specializing in creative, educational, and humorous books for children.
Genre: Picture books, nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Accepts unsolicited submissions via email. Prefers engaging stories with educational value.

47. Albert Street Books (Allen & Unwin)

An Australian imprint that brings fun, adventurous stories to life. They’re passionate about finding fresh voices in children’s fiction.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade, YA
Word count / Notes: Accepts unsolicited manuscripts from authors in Australia and New Zealand.

48. Frances Lincoln Children’s Books

This UK publisher focuses on beautifully crafted stories celebrating diversity, inclusion, and creativity.
Genre: Picture books, nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Submissions via their website; prefers inspiring, global perspectives.

49. Gecko Press

Based in New Zealand, Gecko Press translates and publishes “curiously good books” from around the world.
Genre: Picture books, chapter books
Word count / Notes: Accepts unsolicited submissions. Prefers stories with originality and international appeal.

50. Allen & Unwin (Children’s Division)

A leading Australian publisher of award-winning children’s and YA literature, known for nurturing debut authors.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade, YA
Word count / Notes: Accepts unagented submissions through their Friday Pitch program.

51. Nosy Crow

A dynamic UK publisher producing award-winning, imaginative books for children. They’re known for humor, heart, and innovation.
Genre: Picture books, board books, early readers
Word count / Notes: Open to submissions from UK-based authors. Prefers stories that read well aloud.

52. Andersen Press

Home to many beloved picture books and children’s classics, Andersen Press values originality and emotional connection.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade
Word count / Notes: Accepts unagented submissions by post. No email submissions accepted.

53. Maverick Arts Publishing

An independent UK publisher known for colorful, funny, and quirky picture books.
Genre: Picture books, early readers
Word count / Notes: Under 800 words. Prefers rhyming stories that scan perfectly and have commercial appeal.

54. Flying Eye Books (Nobrow Press)

This London-based publisher blends design, art, and storytelling to create visually stunning children’s books.
Genre: Illustrated books, nonfiction, comics
Word count / Notes: Accepts submissions from author-illustrators. Lyrical or visually striking text preferred.

55. Kane Miller Books (Imprint of EDC Publishing)

Publishes international stories that broaden children’s worldviews and celebrate cultural diversity.
Genre: Picture books, educational nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Submissions open via online form. Focus on global perspectives and inclusivity.

56. Tiger Tales

A U.S.-based publisher that delights in whimsical stories filled with imagination and gentle humor.
Genre: Picture books, early readers
Word count / Notes: Unagented submissions welcome. Prefers stories that connect with young children’s emotions.

57. Sleeping Bear Learning

An imprint dedicated to educational picture books that blend entertainment with classroom value.
Genre: Nonfiction, curriculum-based stories
Word count / Notes: Accepts unsolicited manuscripts; fact-based topics encouraged.

58. Storybook Genius Publishing

This independent press helps debut authors bring creative, inspiring stories to life.
Genre: Picture books, educational fiction
Word count / Notes: Accepts submissions year-round. Works with both new and established authors.

59. Tilbury House Kids

The children’s branch of Tilbury House, known for books that foster curiosity and empathy.
Genre: Picture books, nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Prefers manuscripts with environmental or social themes.

60. Workman Publishing (Kids’ Imprint)

A U.S. publisher that’s both playful and practical, producing interactive and educational titles.
Genre: Activity books, nonfiction, picture books
Word count / Notes: Accepts proposals via email. Emphasis on originality and fun.

61. Hogs Back Books

A small UK publisher that values humor, heart, and clever writing.
Genre: Picture books
Word count / Notes: Submissions under 1,000 words. Prefers stories with strong read-aloud potential.

62. Tiger Tales UK

Sister company to Tiger Tales USA, this imprint focuses on picture books that balance joy, rhythm, and emotional depth.
Genre: Picture books
Word count / Notes: Open to unsolicited manuscripts; prefers imaginative, expressive language.

63. Clavis Belgium

This European children’s publisher creates visually rich books for preschoolers and early readers.
Genre: Picture books, early learning
Word count / Notes: Accepts English-language submissions. Simple text and big emotional moments preferred.

64. Kane Miller UK

Brings foreign-language picture books to English-speaking audiences, focusing on empathy and adventure.
Genre: Picture books, educational nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Accepts proposals with global themes or bilingual possibilities.

65. Candlewick Studio

An imprint of Candlewick Press focused on artistic, design-driven children’s books.
Genre: Illustrated picture books, concept books
Word count / Notes: Accepts unagented submissions. Prefers high-concept stories with visual storytelling opportunities.

66. Little Island Books

An Irish publisher that believes in “great stories for curious kids.”
Genre: Middle grade, YA
Word count / Notes: Open to submissions from English-language authors. Prefers heartfelt, literary narratives.

67. Tiny Owl Publishing

This UK press bridges cultures through stunningly illustrated picture books inspired by global folktales.
Genre: Picture books, retellings
Word count / Notes: Accepts unagented submissions; focus on cultural exchange and originality.

68. Child’s Play International

Known for interactive books and inclusive storytelling, Child’s Play offers playful and educational titles for young children.
Genre: Board books, picture books
Word count / Notes: Submissions accepted year-round. Prefers interactive and sensory formats.

69. Blue Apple Books

A creative U.S. publisher specializing in visually driven books that engage imagination and early literacy.
Genre: Picture books, novelty books
Word count / Notes: Unsolicited submissions accepted. Seeks unique voices and fresh visual styles.

70. Kane Press

An educational publisher producing narrative nonfiction that combines storytelling with learning.
Genre: Nonfiction picture books, early readers
Word count / Notes: Open to writers with teaching experience or subject expertise.

71. ABDO Publishing

A leading educational publisher serving schools and libraries with engaging nonfiction for children.
Genre: Nonfiction, educational series
Word count / Notes: Prefers proposals for series or curriculum-aligned topics.

72. Albert Whitman & Co. (Educational Imprint)

This division focuses on school-centered and social-emotional themes.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade
Word count / Notes: Accepts unsolicited manuscripts; seeks values-based storytelling.

73. Jump! Books

Creates fun, easy-to-read nonfiction and fiction series for young readers.
Genre: Nonfiction, early chapter books
Word count / Notes: Focus on educational and engaging series concepts.

74. Free Spirit Teens

Part of Free Spirit Publishing, this imprint targets middle school and teen readers with empowering, real-world messages.
Genre: Nonfiction, YA
Word count / Notes: Open to direct submissions. Prefers educational and self-help themes.

75. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing (Faith & Values Line)

Combines literary quality with spiritual and moral insight for thoughtful readers.
Genre: Faith-based picture books, middle grade
Word count / Notes: Unagented submissions welcome; gentle, reflective tone preferred.

76. Tilbury House Social Awareness Line

Focuses on picture books that help kids navigate kindness, empathy, and justice.
Genre: Picture books
Word count / Notes: Prefers emotionally intelligent and inclusive narratives.

77. Simply Read Books

A boutique Canadian press with beautifully illustrated, artistic picture books.
Genre: Picture books, illustrated fiction
Word count / Notes: Accepts unsolicited submissions. Seeks visual creativity and poetic writing.

78. North Winds Press (Scholastic Canada)

Publishes books that celebrate Canadian identity, heritage, and nature.
Genre: Picture books, nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Open to Canadian authors only. Prefers stories rooted in real places or traditions.

79. HarperCollins Australia (Children’s Division)

Publishes bestselling picture books and YA novels across genres.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade, YA
Word count / Notes: Accepts unagented submissions from Australia and New Zealand.

80. Affirm Press Kids

An Australian publisher producing uplifting, meaningful stories for children.
Genre: Picture books, early readers
Word count / Notes: Open to submissions from Australian and New Zealand authors. Encourages stories with optimism and humor.

81. Bushel & Peck Books

A U.S. independent press devoted to creating books that build character, empathy, and curiosity.
Genre: Picture books, nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Open to submissions from authors with strong, uplifting messages.

82. Owlet Press

A UK-based publisher known for heartwarming stories that embrace diversity, kindness, and self-expression.
Genre: Picture books
Word count / Notes: Submissions accepted via email; seeks inclusive and emotional storytelling.

83. Beaming Books

This faith-inspired imprint of 1517 Media publishes picture books that help children grow in faith and kindness.
Genre: Picture books, early readers
Word count / Notes: Open to unagented submissions; prefers themes of compassion and emotional growth.

84. Familius Publishing

A family-centered press focused on books that help families be happy together.
Genre: Picture books, nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Accepts submissions through its website. Prefers uplifting stories with universal family themes.

85. Kind World Publishing

Founded to create books that nurture empathy and understanding in young readers.
Genre: Picture books
Word count / Notes: Open to unsolicited manuscripts; focus on social-emotional development.

86. Little Bigfoot (Sasquatch Books)

A Pacific Northwest imprint publishing regionally inspired and diverse picture books.
Genre: Picture books, early readers
Word count / Notes: Accepts submissions from unagented authors; prefers local or nature-centered stories.

87. Tilbury House Cultural Imprint

Publishes stories that highlight different cultures, histories, and identities for young readers.
Genre: Picture books, nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Focus on authenticity and positive representation. Email submissions accepted.

88. Amicus Publishing

Educational nonfiction and fiction for children that bridges fun and fact.
Genre: Nonfiction, early readers
Word count / Notes: Accepts proposals with educational relevance. No unsolicited fiction accepted.

89. Sleeping Bear Press (Trade Division)

Known for beautifully illustrated, heartfelt picture books and middle grade titles.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade
Word count / Notes: Accepts unagented submissions via mail. Prefers character-driven stories.

90. Lerner Publishing Group

A large, respected publisher offering opportunities for both fiction and nonfiction children’s authors.
Genre: Picture books, nonfiction, YA
Word count / Notes: Open to unagented submissions. Prefers educational and diverse voices.

91. Charlesbridge Publishing

A U.S. publisher that combines learning and fun, producing high-quality books that inform and entertain.
Genre: Nonfiction, picture books
Word count / Notes: Accepts unsolicited manuscripts; prefers STEM and social issue topics.

92. Annick Press

A Canadian indie press with a mission to publish bold, thought-provoking, and diverse children’s books.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade, YA
Word count / Notes: Open to submissions; seeks authentic, creative storytelling.

93. Owlkids Learning

A branch of Owlkids dedicated to nonfiction titles that inspire curiosity and discovery.
Genre: Educational nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Unagented submissions accepted. Prefers engaging STEM content for ages 4–10.

94. Redleaf Lane

A boutique publisher producing stories that nurture children’s emotional intelligence and mindfulness.
Genre: Picture books
Word count / Notes: Accepts manuscripts that support empathy, awareness, and growth.

95. Kids Can Press

A powerhouse Canadian publisher producing smart, engaging books that resonate internationally.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade, YA
Word count / Notes: Open to unsolicited submissions via email; strong voice and originality essential.

96. Quirk Books (Children’s Division)

Known for quirky, humorous, and surprising titles that appeal to kids and parents alike.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade
Word count / Notes: Accepts unsolicited submissions. Unique concepts encouraged.

97. Magination Teens (APA)

The teen-focused branch of Magination Press, promoting emotional well-being and resilience.
Genre: YA nonfiction, self-help
Word count / Notes: Open to subject-matter experts. Prefers practical yet empathetic writing.

98. Nomad Press

An educational publisher passionate about science, history, and exploration for young readers.
Genre: Nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Accepts proposals from educators and experts. STEM focus preferred.

99. Albert Whitman Learning

This division creates early learning and classroom titles rooted in curiosity and compassion.
Genre: Nonfiction, picture books
Word count / Notes: Accepts unagented submissions; educational and SEL-driven topics welcomed.

100. Barefoot Books Learning Line

An extension of Barefoot Books’ mission, this line promotes storytelling as a tool for global education.
Genre: Nonfiction, picture books
Word count / Notes: Submissions open; prefers inclusive, multicultural narratives.

101. Brown Books Kids

Part of the Brown Books Publishing Group, this imprint supports author-led publishing with traditional distribution.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade
Word count / Notes: Accepts submissions year-round; ideal for collaborative authors.

102. B&H Kids (Lifeway)

A Christian publisher dedicated to stories that inspire faith and good values.
Genre: Picture books, devotional nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Open to authors of faith-based stories for children.

103. Clavis Junior Fiction

Clavis’ line for early chapter books encourages curiosity and imagination in beginning readers.
Genre: Early chapter books
Word count / Notes: Under 10,000 words. Accepts unagented submissions in English.

104. Green Bean Books

A small UK press focused on high-quality, creative picture books and middle grade fiction.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade
Word count / Notes: Accepts submissions by email. Artistic and heartfelt stories preferred.

105. Tilbury House Environmental Line

Publishes picture books promoting sustainability and respect for nature.
Genre: Picture books, nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Prefers fact-based yet lyrical manuscripts with educational themes.

106. Second Story Press

A feminist Canadian publisher committed to equity, inclusion, and empowerment.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade, YA
Word count / Notes: Accepts unsolicited submissions; socially conscious themes encouraged.

107. EK Books

An Australian publisher specializing in picture books that help children navigate life’s challenges.
Genre: Picture books
Word count / Notes: Unagented submissions accepted from Australian authors. Real-world emotional topics welcomed.

108. Exisle Publishing (Children’s Imprint)

Publishes stories that inspire mindfulness, resilience, and emotional awareness.
Genre: Picture books
Word count / Notes: Accepts submissions from Australia, NZ, and the UK. Prefers uplifting and educational tones.

109. Clavis Young Teen

Targets readers ready to transition from middle grade to teen fiction, with accessible yet mature themes.
Genre: Early YA
Word count / Notes: 25,000–50,000 words. Accepts English-language submissions from unagented writers.

110. Little Feminist Press

Publishes books celebrating diversity, equality, and identity for the next generation of changemakers.
Genre: Picture books, nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Accepts submissions from diverse authors; inclusive storytelling required.

111. Red Chair Press

A U.S. educational publisher focusing on early literacy and character development.
Genre: Picture books, early readers
Word count / Notes: Open to submissions that promote positive behavior and learning skills.

112. Holiday House

One of the oldest U.S. children’s publishers, known for nurturing debut authors and illustrators.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade, YA
Word count / Notes: Accepts unagented submissions. Prefers character-driven and meaningful stories.

113. Albert Whitman Faith Line

Publishes gentle, spiritually inspired stories that encourage empathy and family values.
Genre: Picture books, early readers
Word count / Notes: Accepts submissions via email. Subtle moral themes preferred.

114. Tilbury House STEM Imprint

Dedicated to stories that make science and discovery accessible and fun for kids.
Genre: Nonfiction picture books
Word count / Notes: STEM topics welcome; accuracy and engagement key.

115. Ripple Grove Educational

Focuses on poetic, visually rich picture books that inspire emotional literacy.
Genre: Picture books
Word count / Notes: Accepts submissions by email. No rhyming text; prefers lyrical prose.

116. Capstone Fiction

An imprint of Capstone Press that publishes engaging, accessible stories for reluctant readers.
Genre: Early readers, middle grade
Word count / Notes: Unagented submissions accepted. Short word counts and clear themes preferred.

117. Owlkids STEM

A specialized imprint focused on science, technology, and discovery for children.
Genre: Nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Accepts proposals from educators and authors with subject expertise.

118. Tanglewood Publishing

A small U.S. publisher known for heartfelt, literary children’s and YA titles.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade, YA
Word count / Notes: Accepts unsolicited submissions. Seeks emotional honesty and timeless storytelling.

119. Flashlight Press

Publishes picture books that are fun to read aloud and appeal to both kids and adults.
Genre: Picture books
Word count / Notes: Under 1,000 words. Accepts unagented submissions by email only.

120. Lantana Publishing

An award-winning UK press championing diversity and underrepresented voices.
Genre: Picture books, early readers
Word count / Notes: Accepts unsolicited submissions; inclusive and global perspectives preferred.

121. Tilbury House Family Line

Centers on stories that celebrate family, belonging, and kindness.
Genre: Picture books
Word count / Notes: Submissions open via email. Prefers stories with emotional depth and realism.

122. Happy Yak (Quarto Kids)

A joyful imprint that produces colorful, playful books for early childhood.
Genre: Board books, picture books
Word count / Notes: Accepts submissions through Quarto’s website. Fun, accessible writing essential.

123. NorthSouth Educational

Focuses on illustrated books that combine beauty with meaningful content for young readers.
Genre: Picture books, nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Open to author-illustrators. Prefers artistic storytelling with moral lessons.

124. The Innovation Press

A U.S. publisher of children’s books that celebrate STEM, creativity, and perseverance.
Genre: Nonfiction, picture books
Word count / Notes: Accepts submissions from authors passionate about science and learning.

125. Tilbury House Heritage Line

Publishes picture books exploring heritage, culture, and identity through storytelling.
Genre: Picture books, nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Submissions accepted by email. Authentic representation a must.

126. Phaidon Children’s Books

A global art and design publisher producing visually stunning, concept-driven books for kids.
Genre: Picture books, art-based nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Accepts submissions from author-illustrators; design emphasis encouraged.

127. West Margin Press

An independent U.S. publisher that values creative, heartfelt storytelling with strong visual appeal.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade
Word count / Notes: Accepts submissions through its website. Encourages diverse and original voices.

128. Tilbury House Community Line

Focused on books that bring people together through stories about cooperation, justice, and kindness.
Genre: Picture books, nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Accepts unagented submissions; seeks stories that inspire social connection.

129. HarperCollins Christian Kids

Publishes inspirational and faith-based books that engage young readers with positive values.
Genre: Picture books, devotional nonfiction
Word count / Notes: Accepts proposals via their submissions page. Family-friendly themes encouraged.

130. Starlit Path Press

A forward-thinking independent publisher dedicated to imaginative children’s stories that inspire hope and creativity. Their catalog focuses on timeless tales with modern values and heart.
Genre: Picture books, middle grade, YA
Word count / Notes: Accepts unsolicited submissions via email. Prefers uplifting stories with strong emotional resonance and diverse voices.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does “unsolicited manuscript” mean?

It means you can submit your manuscript directly to the publisher without needing a literary agent. Always check each publisher’s website for current submission guidelines.

2. How do I know if my story fits a publisher’s list?

Read a few of their recent titles and submission pages. Publishers usually describe the age group, themes, and tone they’re looking for.

3. Can I submit the same manuscript to multiple publishers?

Yes, most publishers allow simultaneous submissions — but mention it in your cover letter and withdraw promptly if your story gets accepted elsewhere.

4. What should I include with my submission?

Typically, a query letter, a short synopsis, and your full manuscript or sample pages. Some publishers request specific formats, so follow their individual guidelines carefully.

5. How long does it take to hear back after submitting?

Response times vary. Some reply within a few weeks, while others can take several months. If you don’t hear back after the listed timeframe, a polite follow-up email is acceptable.

Final Thoughts

Breaking into children’s publishing takes patience, persistence, and passion — but it’s absolutely possible. Whether you’re writing a heartfelt picture book, an adventurous middle-grade novel, or a thought-provoking YA story, these 130 publishers give you real opportunities to share your voice.

Keep refining your craft, read widely in your genre, and don’t be afraid to submit — your story might be the next one to inspire a generation of readers.

Disclaimer: The publishers listed here are provided for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with these publishers and do not guarantee manuscript acceptance. We only provide professional book editing, marketing, and formatting services to help authors prepare their work for submission and improve their chances of acceptance. Always verify submission details on the publisher’s official website before applying.