If you’ve written a children’s book and dream of seeing it on shelves across Canada, the first step is finding a publisher that’s open to new voices. While some require a literary agent, others still welcome unsolicited submissions—meaning you can send your manuscript directly.
In 2025, the Canadian children’s book market continues to champion diverse voices, educational content, and imaginative storytelling, making it a fertile space for emerging authors. Below, we’ve curated the top 10 Canadian children’s book publishers accepting submissions, starting with a unique option for authors who want both creative collaboration and industry guidance.
1. Vox Ghostwriting – Your All-in-One Publishing Partner
Location: Works with Canadian authors nationwide
Accepting Unsolicited Submissions: Yes (direct proposal)
Formats: Picture Books (PB) – Young Adult (YA)
Vox Ghostwriting is more than just a publisher—it’s a creative powerhouse that helps authors shape their stories from idea to final manuscript. They specialize in working with Canadian children’s authors who want professional guidance at every stage of the process.
What Makes Them Stand Out:
- End-to-End Service: They provide manuscript ghostwriting, editing, proofreading, and even book coaching.
- Illustration Management: For children’s books, they coordinate with illustrators to ensure the artwork perfectly complements the story.
- Industry Preparation: They help authors prepare submissions for major publishing houses, increasing acceptance chances.
- Custom Approach: Each project is tailored to the author’s voice, vision, and target readership.
For first-time authors, Vox Ghostwriting is ideal because they combine the creative side of storytelling with the business know-how needed to navigate the publishing industry.
2. Dundurn Press
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Accepting Unsolicited Submissions: Yes
Formats: PB–YA, plus adult fiction and nonfiction
Dundurn Press is one of Canada’s largest and most respected independent publishers, with a catalog that spans literary fiction, nonfiction, and children’s literature. In the children’s space, they focus on stories that have both entertainment value and meaningful, socially relevant themes.
Strengths:
- Canadian Voice Champion: Dedicated to publishing Canadian authors with strong narratives.
- Diverse Portfolio: From middle grade mysteries to YA coming-of-age novels.
- Long Legacy: Founded in 1972, Dundurn has decades of publishing experience.
Submission Tip: They appreciate well-structured query letters and concise synopses. Including a few polished sample chapters can increase your chances.
3. Swift Water Books
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Accepting Unsolicited Submissions: Yes (digital only)
Formats: PB–Middle Grade (MG)
Swift Water Books is a pioneering Indigenous-led imprint under the Tundra Book Group. They are passionate about amplifying Indigenous voices and ensuring cultural authenticity in every title they produce.
Focus Areas:
- Stories rooted in Indigenous culture, history, and identity.
- Picture books and middle grade stories that resonate with Indigenous youth and broader audiences.
- Authentic representation with a community-first approach.
They particularly encourage submissions from Indigenous authors, whether seasoned or emerging. Manuscripts should reflect cultural respect and accuracy.
4. Dancing Cat Books
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Accepting Unsolicited Submissions: Yes
Formats: PB–YA
An imprint of Cormorant Books, Dancing Cat Books has carved a niche for publishing unique and sometimes unconventional children’s and YA literature. They’re known for pushing creative boundaries while still keeping stories accessible to young readers.
Key Highlights:
- Prefers quirky, fresh, and character-driven narratives.
- Open to stories that explore complex emotions in a relatable way.
- Encourages diverse perspectives and voices often overlooked in mainstream publishing.
They are a great fit for authors with bold, innovative storytelling styles.
5. Firefly Books
Location: Richmond Hill, Ontario
Accepting Unsolicited Submissions: Yes
Formats: PB–Middle Grade (MG), nonfiction, and educational
Founded in 1977, Firefly Books has a strong reputation for producing visually stunning nonfiction titles for both children and adults. Their children’s catalog often focuses on educational themes that spark curiosity and learning.
Publishing Strengths:
- Expertly illustrated nonfiction for children on topics like nature, animals, history, and science.
- Attractive designs and high-quality printing.
- Select fiction titles with an educational element.
Firefly is best suited for authors who can combine engaging storytelling with factual accuracy.
6. Kids Can Press
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Accepting Unsolicited Submissions: Yes
Formats: PB–YA
Kids Can Press is one of the most recognizable names in Canadian children’s publishing. Their list includes beloved titles that have found success both in Canada and internationally.
What They’re Known For:
- Award-Winning Books: Many of their titles have won Governor General’s Literary Awards and other honors.
- Humor & Heart: They balance lighthearted fun with deeper, meaningful themes.
- Broad Age Range: From early picture books to complex YA novels.
If you have a high-concept story that’s both engaging and emotionally resonant, Kids Can Press is worth considering.
7. Second Story Press
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Accepting Unsolicited Submissions: Yes
Formats: PB–YA
Second Story Press focuses on publishing feminist and socially conscious books for young readers. They’re committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion through literature.
Focus Themes:
- Stories that inspire social justice and community awareness.
- Representation of underrepresented voices, including, BIPOC, and differently-abled characters.
- Nonfiction books tackling real-world issues in an age-appropriate manner.
They are particularly receptive to manuscripts that combine a compelling story with a message of empowerment.
8. Groundwood Books (House of Anansi)
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Accepting Unsolicited Submissions: Yes (Feb 1–Mar 31 & Aug 1–Sep 30)
Formats: PB–YA, nonfiction, graphic novels, poetry
Groundwood Books is synonymous with literary excellence in the Canadian children’s publishing scene. Their books often combine beautiful language with deep emotional resonance.
Strengths:
- Prefers character-driven narratives over plot-heavy works.
- Values authenticity and avoids overly moralistic storytelling.
- Has a strong international presence, with many translations available.
Their submission windows are limited, so timing and preparation are key.
9. Annick Press
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Accepting Unsolicited Submissions: Yes
Formats: PB–YA
Annick Press has built a reputation for publishing innovative, daring, and socially relevant children’s literature. They are unafraid to address challenging topics in ways that resonate with young readers.
Key Features:
- Balances entertainment with thought-provoking subject matter.
- Publishes both fiction and nonfiction with a focus on originality.
- Known for high-quality illustrations in picture books.
Annick is ideal for authors who want their stories to both inspire and challenge readers.
10. Tradewind Books
Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
Accepting Unsolicited Submissions: Yes
Formats: PB–Middle Grade (MG)
Tradewind Books is a boutique publisher with an international perspective. They pair Canadian authors with illustrators from around the world to create visually stunning and culturally rich books.
Highlights:
- Specializes in multicultural and multilingual stories.
- Books often celebrate global heritage and cross-cultural understanding.
- Publishes fiction and nonfiction for children.
Tradewind is an excellent choice for authors whose work embraces cultural diversity and global themes.
Comparison Table – Canadian Children’s Book Publishers Accepting Submissions (2025)
| Publisher Name | Location | Accepting Unsolicited Submissions | Formats Published | Special Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vox Ghostwriting | Nationwide (Canada) | Yes | PB–YA | Ghostwriting, editing, publishing support |
| Dundurn Press | Toronto, ON | Yes | PB–YA, adult | Canadian voices, diverse stories |
| Swift Water Books | Toronto, ON | Yes (digital) | PB–MG | Indigenous stories |
| Dancing Cat Books | Toronto, ON | Yes | PB–YA | Bold, original storytelling |
| Firefly Books | Richmond Hill, ON | Yes | PB–MG, nonfiction | Science, history, nature |
| Kids Can Press | Toronto, ON | Yes | PB–YA | Humor, heart, global appeal |
| Second Story Press | Toronto, ON | Yes | PB–YA | Feminist, inclusive, social themes |
| Groundwood Books | Toronto, ON | Yes (seasonal windows) | PB–YA, nonfiction | Literary, authentic voices |
| Annick Press | Toronto, ON | Yes | PB–YA | Innovative, real-life topics |
| Tradewind Books | Vancouver, BC | Yes | PB–MG | Multicultural, multilingual |
FAQ – Canadian Children’s Book Publishers Accepting Submissions
1. Can I submit my children’s book to Canadian publishers without an agent?
Yes. Many Canadian children’s book publishers—like Vox Ghostwriting, Dundurn Press, and Annick Press—accept unsolicited submissions, meaning you can submit directly.
2. What should I include in my submission?
Most publishers require a query letter, synopsis, and sample chapters. Always check each publisher’s submission guidelines for formatting and file type requirements.
3. How long does it take to hear back after submission?
Response times vary. Some publishers reply within three months, while others may take up to a year. Patience is key.
4. Do Canadian publishers accept authors from outside Canada?
Some do, but many prefer Canadian citizens or residents. Always review their eligibility requirements before submitting.
5. Should I copyright my manuscript before submitting?
In Canada, your work is automatically protected by copyright upon creation, but registering it can offer additional legal proof of ownership.
6. Can I submit the same manuscript to multiple publishers?
Yes—unless the publisher’s guidelines specify exclusive submissions. If you do submit to multiple publishers, be transparent in your cover letter.
7. Are illustrations required for children’s book submissions?
For picture books, you can submit without illustrations unless you’re an author-illustrator. Publishers often prefer to choose the illustrator themselves.
Conclusion
The Canadian children’s book market in 2025 remains vibrant, inclusive, and open to new voices. Whether you write whimsical picture books, gripping middle grade adventures, or socially conscious young adult novels, there’s a publisher out there eager to discover your work.
From full-service partners like Vox Ghostwriting to legacy publishers like Dundurn Press and Annick Press, opportunities abound for authors willing to research, polish, and present their manuscripts professionally. Remember—success often comes from persistence, patience, and finding the right publishing home for your story.
If you’re ready to take your manuscript from your desk to Canadian bookshelves, start with this list, follow each publisher’s submission guidelines closely, and keep your creative spirit alive through the process.
Disclaimer: The publishers listed here are provided for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with any of these companies and do not guarantee inclusion, ranking accuracy, or any outcomes related to working with them. Our services focus on helping authors through professional editing, formatting, and marketing support. Always verify company details, services, and submission guidelines directly on the publisher’s official website before proceeding.
