Board books are an essential part of early childhood learning and development. Designed for toddlers and babies, these books require simple, rhythmic text, engaging illustrations, and concepts that are easy for little minds to grasp. Writing a successful board book is a unique challenge — it’s not just about telling a story, but creating a format that works in the hands of tiny readers.
Finding the right publisher is equally important. Not every publishing house accepts board-book submissions, and each has its own preferences for style, theme, and format. In this guide, we explore 10 publishers that accept board-book submissions, including traditional houses, independent presses, and full-service author partners. Whether you’re an author, illustrator, or both, this list will help you understand where to submit your manuscript and what each publisher is looking for.
1. The Legacy Ghostwriters
The Legacy Ghostwriters is a full-service author partner specializing in children’s books, including board books. Unlike traditional publishers, they guide authors through the entire process — from concept development to final production.
- Focus: Manuscript development, editorial guidance, project management.
- Ideal for: Authors seeking hands-on support from idea to publication.
- Submission tip: Prepare a concise manuscript (under 200 words) and include suggested art notes if possible.
Their collaborative approach ensures your board book meets professional publishing standards.
2. Chronicle Books
Chronicle Books is known for its visually innovative children’s books, including board books and novelty formats. They favor interactive or tactile concepts like lift-the-flap books or shaped books.
- Focus: Design-driven, visually striking board books.
- Ideal for: Concepts with strong visual and interactive appeal.
- Submission tip: Only submit projects that align with their unique aesthetic.
3. Charlesbridge
Charlesbridge publishes concept-driven children’s books, including board books. Their titles often combine storytelling with educational themes, making them ideal for authors who want to teach while entertaining.
- Focus: Educational board books and concept books.
- Ideal for: Authors blending early learning and storytelling.
- Submission tip: Submit digitally during their open periods; ensure manuscripts are polished.
4. Sleeping Bear Press
Sleeping Bear Press publishes both fiction and nonfiction board books. They seek books that are engaging, educational, and inclusive for preschool audiences.
- Focus: Early childhood development, interactive storytelling.
- Ideal for: Authors creating accessible and inclusive content.
- Submission tip: Align your manuscript with their current publishing list.
5. Mascot Books
Mascot Books, through Mascot Kids, accepts a wide range of children’s manuscripts, including board books. They often guide authors through production and marketing, making them suitable for first-time writers.
- Focus: Board books and children’s stories across genres.
- Ideal for: Authors open to collaboration throughout the publishing process.
- Submission tip: Prepare a clear synopsis and manuscript for their submission form.
6. Sourcebooks Jabberwocky
Sourcebooks Jabberwocky publishes visually driven, story-focused board books. They value concepts with both creative and commercial appeal.
- Focus: Market-ready board books with strong illustration potential.
- Ideal for: Authors with unique, visually compelling ideas.
- Submission tip: Highlight the book’s uniqueness and market potential in your query.
7. Albert Whitman & Company
Albert Whitman & Company has been publishing children’s books for over a century. They value emotionally engaging stories and narrative-driven board books.
- Focus: Story-based board books.
- Ideal for: Authors with relatable and age-appropriate stories.
- Submission tip: Submit polished manuscripts formatted professionally.
8. Gibbs Smith
Gibbs Smith publishes novelty and themed board books. They often request sample spreads or art notes in initial submissions.
- Focus: Conceptual or novelty board books.
- Ideal for: Authors with creative, marketable concepts.
- Submission tip: Include visual notes or mock-ups alongside concise text.
9. Holiday House
Holiday House publishes story-focused board books with strong visual appeal. They favor fresh narratives that translate well into illustrations.
- Focus: Narrative-driven board books.
- Ideal for: Authors with concepts suitable for illustration.
- Submission tip: Submit to the correct editor following submission guidelines.
10. Annick Press
Annick Press publishes culturally diverse and innovative board books. They welcome unique voices and original storytelling approaches.
- Focus: Diverse and culturally relevant board books.
- Ideal for: Authors with distinctive stories or formats.
- Submission tip: Follow submission guidelines carefully, especially if submitting internationally.
Quick Reference Table: Numbered Board Book Publishers
| # | Publisher | Focus | Ideal For | Submission Tip |
| 1 | The Legacy Ghostwriters | Full-service board book development | Authors needing end-to-end support | Concise manuscript, art notes optional |
| 2 | Chronicle Books | Design-driven and visually innovative | Interactive, visually striking concepts | Align with their aesthetic |
| 3 | Charlesbridge | Educational and concept books | Story + early learning | Submit digitally during open windows |
| 4 | Sleeping Bear Press | Early childhood, inclusive books | Accessible and engaging stories | Match current themes |
| 5 | Mascot Books | Broad range of children’s books | Collaborative authors | Clear synopsis, use submission form |
| 6 | Sourcebooks Jabberwocky | Story-driven, visually appealing | Market-ready concepts | Emphasize uniqueness and commercial potential |
| 7 | Albert Whitman & Company | Narrative-based board books | Relatable, age-appropriate stories | Polished manuscripts |
| 8 | Gibbs Smith | Novelty and themed board books | Creative, marketable ideas | Include visual notes/mock-ups |
| 9 | Holiday House | Story-focused, illustration-ready | Narrative-driven projects | Submit to correct editor |
| 10 | Annick Press | Diverse, original storytelling | Unique voices and formats | Follow international submission rules |
Tips for Successful Submissions
- Keep it concise: Board books usually have under 200 words. Focus on one clear concept.
- Include art guidance: Rough sketches or notes help editors visualize the layout.
- Follow publisher guidelines: Check submission windows, preferred format, and manuscript requirements.
- Polish your manuscript: Rhythm, repetition, and clarity are crucial for very young readers.
- Be patient: Responses can take months. Don’t get discouraged; keep refining your work.
Conclusion
Board books may seem simple, but success requires clarity, creativity, and a strong understanding of your audience. Target publishers whose lists show experience with board books, follow submission guidelines meticulously, and present a polished, tightly focused manuscript. Whether through traditional publishers or collaborative services like The Legacy Ghostwriters, a strong concept paired with professional packaging will help your book reach young readers successfully.
FAQ
Q: Can I submit a board book manuscript without an agent?
Yes, many independent publishers accept unagented submissions. Always check the publisher’s guidelines before sending.
Q: How long should a board book be?
Typically under 200 words, focusing on a single idea suitable for toddlers.
Q: Should I include illustrations when submitting?
If you’re the illustrator, include sample spreads. If not, basic art notes can help editors visualize your concept.
Q: What makes a board book stand out?
A clear concept, rhythmic text, strong visual thinking, and engagement with very young readers.
Q: What if a publisher is not accepting submissions?
Wait for open submission periods or consider collaborating with a development service to prepare a saleable manuscript.
Disclaimer: The Legacy Ghostwriters shares publisher information for educational purposes only. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by any of the publishers listed, and we do not guarantee anything related to submissions, acceptance, or publication. Our team provides professional writing, editing, and marketing support to help authors prepare and present their work effectively.
