Karen Smith – Editor

I'm a professional children's book editor with over 10 experience at Penguin Random House and Hachette Book Group editing picture books, chapter books, middle grade and young adult novels. Most notably, I've edited a National Book Award long list title, Sydney Taylor Notable titles, New York Times bestsellers, and many other award winners. I see each of my titles through with meticulous detail, and am passionately proud of all my projects. My experience has given me a clear vision for strong, literary works across genres with commercial and critical appeal.

As a developmental editor, I am efficient, creative, and timely. My goal is to work in collaboration with authors to help bring out the very best in their work, and to help them build the career of their dreams.

For query letters and pitching, I bring a wealth of experience in acquisition as well as key industry contacts. I have a keen understanding of what publishers are looking for and how that translates to the current market. I am always up-to-date on trends in the industry and bring an understanding of the present marketing and publicity landscape as well.