Markets – Young Adult & Children’s Authors

The market for young adult (YA) and children’s (kid lit) authors offers diverse opportunities in traditional publishing, freelancing, education, and related media fields. The market is robust, with consistent sales growth, particularly in YA and middle-grade categories.  Writing jobs for young adult (YA) and children’s authors typically involve either pursuing a traditional publishing contract via a literary agent or working as a freelance content creator for publishers and educational companies.

Traditional Publishing

The traditional path to becoming a published author involves writing a complete manuscript and securing a literary agent to represent your work to publishing houses.

• Research the Market: Read widely in your specific category (picture books, middle grade, or YA) to understand current trends, writing styles, and which publishers are active in those genres.
• Join Professional Organizations: The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) is the primary professional organization for children’s and YA authors. Membership provides access to educational resources, critique groups, grants, and networking opportunities with industry professionals like agents and editors.
• Find a Literary Agent: Most major publishing houses only accept submissions through agents. Use resources like Reedsy’s agent lists or literary agency websites to find agents specializing in children’s or YA fiction who are currently accepting submissions.
• Submit Your Work: Follow each agent’s specific submission guidelines meticulously. Submitting a polished, professionally formatted manuscript is crucial for success.

Freelance & Content Creation Jobs

For more immediate, job-oriented opportunities, consider freelance work or roles within educational technology and publishing companies.

• Job Boards: Check general freelance platforms like Upwork and job sites like Indeed for positions such as:
  • Children’s story writer
  • Educational content creator (e.g., developing curriculum materials to accompany books)
  • Game writer for EdTech apps
  • Creative writing facilitator or instructor
• Build a Portfolio: Create a strong portfolio of writing samples, even if they are initially unpaid pieces or self-published work, to showcase your skills to potential clients.
• Network: Connect with editors, publishers, and other writers online and at industry events. This can lead to valuable opportunities and collaborations.

Key Skills and Tips

• Understand Your Audience: Tailor your vocabulary, syntax, and themes to the target age group’s reading level and developmental stage.
• Seek Feedback: Join a critique group to get objective feedback on your work before sending it to professionals.
• Be Persistent: The publishing industry can move slowly, and rejections are common. Perseverance and a commitment to your craft are essential.