Elissa Schauer

*AGENTED SUBMISSIONS ONLY*

Hello! I am the Executive Editor at InterVarsity Press (IVP) where I have championed the children’s imprint—IVP Kids—as well as a new collection of Bible studies (and they also allow me to work with a few of my favorite Trade authors).

Before working at IVP (over a decade ago), I was a classroom teacher and a children’s curriculum writer. I’m also a mom of three young adults, and I live outside of Chicago with my husband and our dog in our nearly empty nest. 

Here’s what I’m looking for:

I love strong and fun and flawed characters

I love to be surprised by cleverness (bonus points if you can make me laugh!)

I love amplifying diverse voices

I love to learn but I don’t want to be hit over the head with a message

I love to be challenged

Submission Guidelines

For IVP Kids consideration, authors should submit a proposal and a complete manuscript draft.  

Proposal: 

• A concept statement. In 50 to 100 words summarize the message and purpose of your book, and what benefits it will offer readers.  

• Who the book is for. Explain who the target audience is–including ages and grades–and why they will be attracted to this content/message.  

• Your passion for the message/content. Tell why you are passionate about this message, why it is of value, and why YOU are the right person to deliver this message. 

• Author bio. Include relevant professional and personal experience and relationships. Include any previous publications, social media handles, and any other interesting elements that help us to know more about you. 

• 3-4 comparable titles. Identify books that address similar content or include a similar message, and explain how your book is different. 
• Support of promotion. Identify what you would do to support the promotion of this book; please include organizational and individual connections, as well as potential endorsers and influencers. 

Complete manuscript:

Illustration suggestions can be included, but are not mandatory at this stage. Note that all picture books include a Note from the Author on the last page (approx. 275 words). That element is not required for submission.