SCBWI Exclusive with... Britt Rubiano, Editor, Delacorte
Britt Rubiano is a California-based editor championing Disney YA at Delacorte/RHCB. Britt loves geeking out and creating new IP-inspired stories with her favorite authors. She created the New York Times best-selling Twisted Tale series, and has worked with such powerhouse talents as Elizabeth Lim, Melissa de la Cruz, Grace Lin, and Holly Black. Drawn to compelling characters and intriguing hooks, Britt’s a sucker for magical realism, unique fairy tales, and anything to do with food.
What was your path to becoming an editor?
I did a bunch of college internships and when I assisted a very kind literary agent who let me dig through the slush pile and recommend things, it clicked. You can read/chat about/help make fiction as a job?! I ended up getting my MA in children’s lit. Then I was hired at a boutique publishing house in San Diego where I cut my teeth on all things editorial. From there, I went to Disney Publishing where I worked for 13 years. I’ve recently joined Delacorte at RHCB.
When you are reading a submission, what about it makes you say, 'I have to buy this book?’
I mostly work on IP projects, which I love and which takes up most of my time. But if I find a submission with a compelling hook, an engaging main character or cast, and a compulsively readable narrative, I’ll have no choice but to go after it. It’s usually that ineffable combination of a work that feels fresh and exciting, and like visiting an old friend.
What can authors expect when working with you on their manuscript to get it to publication?
They’ll get a lot of enthusiastic exclamation marks! Also, a think partner, brainstormer, and cheerleader. We’ll work on broad-strokes edits first, then get into the nitty-gritty, and have a blast geeking out about story all the way.
What's on your wish list?
I work on mostly YA with a dash of middle grade. I lean toward cozy, humorous (fantasy or contemporary), magical realism, unique fairy tale retellings, rom-coms, and anything to do with food!