Editor- Jessica Anderson, Christy Ottaviano Books

For Inside the Publishing World Wednesday I am reporting on the editor/agent panel from the SCBWI WWA Spring Conference. First up, editor Jessica Anderson from Christy Ottaviano Books.

Jessica is an assistant editor at Christy Ottaviano Books, an imprint of Henry Holt Books for Young Readers. She has assisted in the publication of a wide range of picture books, middle grade, and YA fiction. She is on the lookout for lyrical picture book biographies, hilarious middle-grade diary fiction, and gritty contemporary realistic YA.

She was asked what would make her look at a query and what would make her pass. Her response, if something is pitched in an unconventional way for a certain genre, we'll take a look at it. However, if it would compete with something already on their list, they'd pass.

In regards to agent/author dealings, Jessica likes to establish a relationship of trust. Before taking on a client she will contact them to see what they can bring to the table, how they will respond to issues, and make sure that together they can have a fruitful collaboration. "We will be the in-house advocate for your book. We want to have a deep personal connection."

To find out more about Christy Ottaviano Books, check out their Facebook page.
Submissions must go through the parent company at Macmillan.com.