What Children’s Publishers are Looking for in 2025
Every year, we have the privilege of turning meaningful manuscripts into treasured children’s books that educate, inspire, and entertain young readers across the globe. At EK Books, we are committed to publishing books with heart on issues that matter, and you may have a manuscript that fits the bill!
In 2025, understanding what publishers are seeking is essential for authors who want their stories to stand out. In this guide, we’ll explore the key themes and elements that children’s book publishers are prioritizing in 2025, drawing on our latest releases, including The Humongous Humdingle Family and the Tiny House, The Last Seed Keeper, and Boldilocks.
1. Modern Takes on Classic Tales
Publishers are on the lookout for stories that provide fresh perspectives on well-loved classics. Books like Boldilocks breathe new life into traditional narratives, blending familiarity with contemporary themes that resonate with today’s young readers. Reimagining classic tales allows authors to explore universal themes such as inclusivity, resilience, and acceptance while providing new lessons that align with modern values.
Stories that incorporate humor, role reversals, or alternative viewpoints add originality and depth. Authors can elevate their manuscripts by reframing classic stories to include diverse characters, modern settings, and thoughtful twists that address real-world issues with heart.
2. Environmental Awareness and Sustainability
Today’s young readers are growing up in an era of heightened environmental awareness, and publishers are eager for stories that reflect this. The Last Seed Keeper exemplifies this trend by highlighting the importance of nature preservation and environmental stewardship. At EK Books, we value stories that empower children to understand their role in protecting the planet and inspire them to take action.
Manuscripts should incorporate environmental themes in engaging and hopeful ways, showcasing characters who take small, relatable actions that contribute to larger environmental efforts. Stories that weave sustainability into the plot organically, rather than as overt moral lessons, resonate strongly with young readers and their families.
3. Diverse Family Dynamics and Inclusive Representation
Representation matters. The Humongous Humdingle Family and the Tiny House shows how non-traditional family dynamics can make for rich, engaging storytelling. At EK Books, we believe that every child deserves to see themselves reflected in the stories they read. Publishers are actively seeking manuscripts that authentically represent the diversity of modern families, including blended families, multicultural backgrounds, same-sex parents, and multi-generational households.
Authors should create characters from a variety of backgrounds without making diversity the central conflict—representation should feel natural and celebratory. Themes of belonging, empathy, and acceptance can be explored through everyday family interactions and adventures, ensuring cultural accuracy and sensitivity throughout.
4. Stories Addressing Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
Children’s books that help young readers develop emotional intelligence continue to be in high demand. At EK Books, we believe in the power of stories to teach empathy, resilience, and emotional well-being. Boldilocks and similar titles address these themes with warmth and humor, encouraging conversations that matter.
Authors can stand out by writing characters who navigate real-world emotions and challenges in age-appropriate ways. Incorporating strategies for dealing with big feelings, such as mindfulness, sharing emotions, or seeking help from trusted adults, normalizes conversations around mental health and emotional well-being. These stories make a lasting impact by providing young readers with tools to understand themselves and others.
5. Remembering the Fundamentals
While trends come and go, the fundamentals of great storytelling remain timeless. Publishers are always drawn to compelling narratives with memorable characters, authentic voices, and meaningful messages. Stories that capture the essence of childhood curiosity, wonder, and emotional truth will always have a place on bookshelves.
At EK Books, we believe that stories with heart—those that speak to universal truths and connect deeply with readers—will outlast fleeting trends. The best manuscripts don’t chase what’s popular; they offer fresh perspectives, original voices, and timeless messages that matter.
Tip for Authors: Focus on telling the story only you can tell. Write from a place of authenticity, clarity, and purpose. Let your narrative voice shine and trust that a great story, well told, will find its audience.
Final Thoughts
At EK Books, we believe stories shape hearts and open minds. In 2025 and beyond, the best books will continue to be those that matter—stories with heart, told with care, and crafted with purpose. Write the story that only you can tell, and trust that it will find its way into the hands of readers who need it most.