Clarissa Wong

I’m an executive editor at Scholastic where I edit picture books and graphic novels.

For picture books, I’m tend to be drawn to lyrical stories with a strong voice and themes of empowerment. For graphic novels, I’m looking for contemporary coming-of-age MG and YA stories that are full of heart and humor. If the story takes a crack at the patriarchy and toxic masculinity, even better. I love stories based on mythology and folklore as well.  I’m especially looking to uplift voices of BIPOC and marginalized creators and particularly stories focused on joy. I’m always interested in reading more multicultural stories and ones about the immigrant experience and/or Asian American identity.

Picture Books:

• Lyrical text (but not necessary)
• Powerful books with a layered message
• Something fresh and I haven’t seen before

Graphic Novels (fiction and nonfiction):

• Contemporary (but not necessary)
• Lovable introverts
• Growing pains
• Packed with humor and heart
• Coming of age/identity
• Emotions/mental health

I’m not the best fit for animal character driven fiction, STEAM/STEM, or nonfiction picture books. For graphic novels, I’m not the best fit for sci-fi or fantasy.

Submission Guidelines

Submissions should be emailed to cwong@scholastic.com

I only accept agented submissions. Please do not send me unsolicited submissions. I will not reply to them.

Agents, please email your pitch and manuscript to me at Scholastic.