Submission Guidelines
Paper Crown Publishing is currently accepting submissions of picture books, early chapter books, middle grade fiction. We also encourage illustrators to submit their portfolios for consideration. Our books aim to empower readers, open minds, and create a lifelong love of reading. They feature contemporary themes (even if the setting is historical) and center kids’ perspectives and experiences.
As an independent publisher, Paper Crown Publishing works primarily with American creators; however, we are open to working with authors and illustrators from around the world. Please let us know if you are American when sending in your work!
Due to the high volume of manuscripts we receive, we regret that we are unable to respond to every submission. If we would like to follow up with you about your submission, we will respond within six months of receipt. Please do not send snail mail or paper submissions. If you have any accessibility needs when submitting, please reach out to submissions@papercrownpublishing.com and we will work with you to find an accommodation.
We can’t wait to see your work!
Picture Books
The picture books that excite us most combine original ideas with strong storytelling. We look for submissions where children are the main drivers of the story and/or explore ideas in ways that have inherent appeal for kids. We love stories told from unique perspectives that tap into deeper issues and emotions, conveying poignant messages without being didactic.
We welcome non-fiction ideas for picture books too; these can be a great way to introduce very young readers to engaging topics that are relevant to their experiences. Non-fiction does not have to be strictly educational: we look for ideas that have appeal and will capture young readers’ imaginations.
Generally, we prefer to receive the manuscript alone, without accompanying illustrations. We do want to know however, if your idea includes a visual narrative to accompany the text, which will help us assess it. We also welcome general suggestions for the art that you’d like us to be aware of when reviewing your manuscript. Our picture books tend to be 32 pages and no longer than 1000 words.
Please submit your full manuscript and cover letter as .docx or .pdf attachments to submissions@papercrownpublishing.com.
Early Reader Chapter Books
We are excited to have recently started accepting more chapter books for early readers, ages 6–9. We’re looking for submissions on topics that will resonate with readers of this age group, either with series potential or intended as standalone stories. We’re looking for emotionally resonant, thought-provoking stories with accessible, authentic, and age-appropriate language and vocabulary. We love stories that explore the interpersonal dynamics relevant to readers this age, that ask questions and encourage self-reflection.
The typical length of our early chapter books ranges from about 7,000–10,000 words. Submissions can be either a complete manuscript or sample chapter(s) with a story outline. If you are pitching a series, please consider including subsequent story ideas in your submission.
Please submit your full manuscript and cover letter as .docx or .pdf attachments to submissions@papercrownpublishing.com.
Middle Grade Fiction
Our middle reader novels aim to engage kids with exciting stories that inspire deep thought and reflection. We’re looking for original stories with motivated characters, high stakes, and gripping action, even if it’s delivered in subtle form. Humor, even if used occasionally, is an asset. The typical length of our middle reader novels is 20,000–40,000 words.
Please submit your first chapter, synopsis and cover letter as .docx or .pdf attachments to submissions@papercrownpublishing.com.
Illustrators
We’re keen to see portfolios that demonstrate stylistic range, expressive characters, and visual storytelling. Don’t forget to include illustrations of kids! Please send sample images or a link to your portfolio, along with a few words about yourself, to submissions@papercrownpublishing.com.