Writer Guidelines

LEE & LOW BOOKS is a quality children's book publisher that specializes in multicultural themes. Our goal is to meet the need for books that address children of color by providing books that all children can enjoy and which promote a greater understanding of one another. We publish multicultural literature that is relevant to young readers.

Our focus is on fiction and nonfiction featuring children/people of color, for readers ages 5 to 12. Of special interest are realistic fiction, historical fiction, and nonfiction with a distinct voice or unique approach. We do not publish folklore and animal stories.

LEE & LOW BOOKS is dedicated to publishing culturally authentic literature. We make a special effort to work with writers and artists of color and to encourage new voices. We consider unsolicited manuscripts and art samples from writers and artists at all levels of experience.

Manuscript Submissions:
Manuscripts should be typed doubled-spaced and accompanied by a cover letter that includes a brief biography of the author, including publishing history. The letter should also state if the manuscript is a simultaneous or an exclusive submission.
· Picture book manuscripts should be no longer than 1500 words for fiction and 3000 words for nonfiction. Please send the complete manuscript. Do not include illustrations unless you are a professional illustrator. Do not send irreplaceable materials.
· For middle grade manuscripts of more than 10,000 words, please send a query letter with story synopsis and chapter outline. Do not send the complete manuscript.

We cannot accept submissions through email or fax. Only submissions sent through regular post will be considered.

* * * PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW RESPONSE PROCEDURE * * *
We will respond to a submission only if we are interested in the manuscript. We are no longer able to return manuscripts or give a personal response to each submission, so please do not include a self-addressed stamped envelope or a delivery confirmation postcard, or call or email about the status of your submission.

If you do not hear from us within six months, you may assume that your work does not fit our needs.

PLEASE SEND ALL SUBMISSIONS TO: Submissions Editor, LEE & LOW BOOKS, 95 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10016. If you require confirmation of delivery, please send the submission with a U.S. Postal Service Return Receipt.

For Catalog Requests: Please send an self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE) 9"x12" with $1.65 U.S. postage to the above address, ATTN: Catalog Request. Our catalog is also available in downloadable PDF format. Please click here

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