From the Picture Book Editor's Desk

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Sylvie Frank is an editor at Paula Wiseman Books, an imprint of Simon & Schuster. Prior to joining PWB, she worked as an editor at Holiday House. She's edited dozens of picture books, and brings her expertise to 12 x 12.

Among other topics, Sylvie discusses:

  • How a Publishing House (In this case, Simon & Schuster) is organized
  • What is an imprint?
  • What do editors mean when they describe a book as 'commercial,' 'literary,' or 'high concept.'
  • Is there a standard word count that editors look for in picture books?
  • How do editors feel about art notes? When should you use them and when should you leave them out?
  • To rhyme or not to rhyme, that is the question
  • What inspires her to acquire a book
  • What she is currently looking for in picture books


Your Instructor


Sylvie Frank
Sylvie Frank

Sylvie joined Paula Wiseman Books in January 2013. Authors and illustrators she works with include Donna Jo Napoli, Tammi Sauer, Scott Magoon, Taeeun Yoo, Susan Vaught, N.H. Senzai, Jewel, and Melissa Gilbert. She focuses on realistic fiction, particularly literary middle grade, and character-driven picture books. She also edits picture book nonfiction, including narrative nonfiction and picture book biographies. Before joining Paula, Sylvie was an editor at Holiday House.


Course Curriculum



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