Children's Writers' & Artists' Yearbook 2026

For aspiring authors and illustrators serious about breaking into children's publishing, this annual guide remains the definitive industry bible, offering a comprehensive directory of agents, publishers, and magazines alongside practical advice on contracts and submissions. The 2026 edition continues its legacy of providing thousands of meticulously researched, up-to-date contacts, ensuring creators have the correct pathways to get their manuscripts and portfolios in front of the right people. Dozens of new articles from established authors, illustrators, and publishing professionals deliver not just technical know-how but genuine encouragement, demystifying the journey from a personal project to a published book.

What truly sets this resource apart is its curated blend of hard data and human insight, combining the logistical roadmap of who to contact with the motivational fuel of how others succeeded. The inclusion of perspectives from bestselling creators like Alice Oseman provides relatable proof that a career in children's literature is attainable, making the book equally valuable for complete beginners navigating their first query letter and seasoned professionals exploring new markets. For anyone committed to the craft of writing for young readers or illustrating for them, this yearbook is less of a simple reference and more of an annual mentorship, a tool that consistently empowers creators to move their work from the desk drawer into the world.