Whether you're a budding children's book author or a parent curating an enviable bookshelf for your child, knowing the top publishers in the industry is essential. Each publisher has its unique strengths, offering a variety of books that cater to different tastes and age groups. Here's a rundown of the top children's book publishers you should know about and why they stand out.

Key Takeaways

• Scholastic is a cornerstone in children's literature, known for its diverse range of books and educational materials.
• Bloomsbury Children’s Books USA is celebrated for its high-quality storytelling and captivating illustrations.
• Macmillan Children’s Books offers a wide array of genres, from picture books to young adult novels.
• Hot Key Books is known for its innovative and boundary-pushing titles that appeal to young readers.
• David Fickling Books focuses on unique and compelling stories that leave a lasting impression on readers.

1. Scholastic

Founded in 1923, Scholastic is one of the biggest names in children’s book publishing. The company’s bright red branding—not to mention its bright red mascot, Clifford the Big Red Dog—is immediately recognisable during Scholastic Book Fairs in public schools across the United States. Like many of the best children’s book publishers, Scholastic places education and literacy at the forefront of its mission.

Scholastic provides books for a wide range of ages, as it is the publishing house behind well-known titles such as The Hunger Games, Harry Potter, and of course, Clifford the Big Red Dog.

Scholastic was founded in 1920 as a single classroom magazine. Today, Scholastic books and educational materials are in tens of thousands of schools and tens of millions of homes worldwide, helping to “Open a World of Possible” for children across the globe.

2. Bloomsbury Children’s Books USA

Bloomsbury Children’s Books USA is a major player in the world of children's literature, with offices around the globe. Established in 1986, this publisher has a wide range of popular children's book authors, catering to every age group from toddlers to teens.

Bloomsbury’s young adult fiction is particularly noteworthy, often featuring on the New York Times Bestseller list. Their YA books have gained a reputation for high acclaim and record-breaking sales.

For younger children, Bloomsbury offers books that tackle important topics like diversity and inclusion in a way that is easy for young minds to understand. They also provide educational resources that are both engaging and informative.

Bloomsbury is dedicated to creating children's books that make a lasting impact on young readers.

Their catalogue includes numerous award-winning titles such as Piecing Me Together, The Cat I Never Named, and The Promise of Change. You can explore their extensive collection by visiting their catalogue area.

3. Macmillan Children’s Books

Macmillan Children’s Books is one of the oldest and most respected children’s book publishers in the UK. Founded in 1843 by brothers Daniel and Alexander Macmillan, the company has a long history of producing beloved children’s literature. Macmillan deeply believes in the power of books to connect people and amplify diverse voices.

Macmillan was the original publisher of Lewis Carroll's 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland', a classic that continues to enchant readers of all ages. Today, they publish works by popular authors like Julia Donaldson, Axel Scheffler, and Rod Campbell.

Macmillan Children’s Books operates under several imprints, including Two Hoots, Campbell Books, and Kingfisher. Each imprint focuses on different types of children’s literature, ensuring a wide range of books for young readers.

Macmillan’s commitment to creating meaningful change and making a lasting impact is evident in their diverse and inclusive book offerings.

4. Hot Key Books

Hot Key Books is a vibrant publisher based in London. They specialise in books for the young and the young at heart, making them a go-to for engaging and adventurous reads. Their catalogue includes works from renowned authors like Robert Muchamore and Chris Ryan, making it a top choice for KS3 fiction with bite.

Hot Key Books is part of Bonnier Publishing, a mid-sized publisher known for its diverse and exciting range of titles.

They do not accept unagented submissions, but their impressive list of hit titles speaks for itself. Some of their standout books include Sabriel by Garth Nix, Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo, and The Cruel Prince by Holly Black.

5. David Fickling Books

David Fickling Books is a small but mighty independent publisher based in Oxford, UK. They are known for their strong range of children’s, middle-grade, and YA fiction. Although they do not accept unsolicited manuscripts year-round, they host an annual contest where authors can submit their work for a chance to win a publishing contract.

Some of their hit titles include:

• The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon
• The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas by John Boyne
• The Book of Dust by Philip Pullman

David Fickling Books offers a complete catalogue of all publications, along with information about their authors.

For more information, visit their website.

6. Balzer And Bray

Balzer And Bray is a notable imprint of HarperCollins, known for its evocative historical novels and diverse range of children's books. They publish stories that captivate young readers and often tackle important themes.

Balzer And Bray has a reputation for discovering new talent and bringing fresh voices to the forefront. Their books often feature strong characters and imaginative storytelling, making them a favourite among children and parents alike.

Balzer And Bray's commitment to quality and innovation sets them apart in the world of children's publishing.

7. Quarto Kids

Quarto Kids is a notable name in the world of children's publishing. They are known for their nonfiction books that teach kids how to do various activities, like making animation or slime. These books often come with extra materials, known as "Books Plus," which provide additional fun and learning opportunities for children.

Quarto Kids also publishes books about inspiring historical figures, such as Marie Curie and Frida Kahlo. Their titles are designed to engage young readers and spark their curiosity about the world around them.

Quarto Kids' books are perfect for babies and toddlers who will discover animals with this sturdy board book! Bright, colourful photographs and simple prompts introduce readers to a variety of animals.

They have a diverse range of book subscriptions catering to different age groups, from babies to teens. This ensures that there is something for every young reader, no matter their age or interests.

8. Usborne Publishing

Usborne Publishing, based in the UK, is a family-run and independent business. It was founded by Peter Usborne in 1973. Usborne is known for its wide range of genres and has a unique approach where a team of writers, editors, and illustrators work together to create their books. This in-house team ensures high-quality and engaging content for children.

Usborne is particularly famous for its fantastic sticker books, which are highly recommended for children between 3 and 10 years old. These books are not only fun but also super informative, making learning enjoyable for young readers.

Some of their popular series include:

• That's Not My...
• Farmyard Tales Poppy and Sam
• The Cogheart Adventures
• Sticker Dolly Dressing
• Picture Books
• See Inside
• Billy and the Mini Monsters

Usborne Publishing stands out for its commitment to creating educational and entertaining books for children, making it a favourite among parents and educators alike.

9. Hachette Children’s Group

Hachette Children’s Group is a major player in the UK publishing industry. They are one of the largest publishing groups in the UK, boasting 12 publishing divisions and over 60 imprints. This group has a rich history, starting in France in 1826 as a small bookstore and print shop founded by Louis Hachette. Today, it stands as the biggest publishing house in France.

• Known for publishing Enid Blyton's books, which are some of their biggest hits.
• They have grown from humble beginnings to a giant in the industry.

Hachette Children’s Group is proud to be in the business of bringing stories to life for young readers.

10. Little, Brown Books

Little, Brown and Company is an American publishing company founded in 1837 by Charles Coffin Little and James Brown in Boston. For close to two centuries, it has been a significant player in the publishing world.

Little, Brown Books for Young Readers is a division that focuses on children's literature. They publish a wide range of books, from picture books to young adult novels. Their titles often feature engaging stories and vibrant illustrations.

• They have published many award-winning books.
• Their authors include well-known names in children's literature.
• They are known for their commitment to quality and creativity.

Little, Brown Books continues to inspire young readers with their diverse and imaginative titles.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the world of children's book publishing is vast and varied, offering numerous opportunities for both new and seasoned authors. From well-known giants like Scholastic to smaller, specialised publishers like David Fickling Books, there is a perfect match for every story waiting to be told. Whether you're an aspiring author or a parent looking to enrich your child's library, understanding the strengths and specialties of these publishers can guide you to the right choice. Remember, the journey to getting published may be challenging, but with the right publisher, your story can find its way into the hearts of young readers everywhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the biggest publisher of children's books?

Scholastic is widely regarded as the largest publisher of children's books. They have a vast range of titles that cater to various age groups and interests.

Do all children's book publishers accept submissions from authors?

No, not all children's book publishers accept direct submissions from authors. Some only accept submissions through literary agents.

What should I consider when choosing a children's book publisher?

When choosing a children's book publisher, consider their submission guidelines, the types of books they publish, and whether they accept direct submissions or only through agents.

Can I submit my children's book manuscript to multiple publishers at once?

Yes, you can submit your manuscript to multiple publishers at once, but make sure to follow each publisher's submission guidelines and inform them if your manuscript is being considered elsewhere.

What are some examples of popular children's books published by Scholastic?

Some popular children's books published by Scholastic include 'Harry Potter' series by J.K. Rowling, 'Clifford the Big Red Dog' by Norman Bridwell, and 'The Hunger Games' series by Suzanne Collins.

Do children's book publishers offer editing services?

Most children's book publishers have in-house editors who will work with you to refine your manuscript. However, it's a good idea to have your manuscript professionally edited before submission.