SCBWI Exclusive with... Netta Rabin, Publisher, Phaidon Kids
Netta is the Publisher of Phaidon Kids, a global publisher who creates beautifully crafted books that spark curiosity, celebrate creativity, and invites children to explore their world.
Tell us about Phaidon and what you are publishing.
At Phaidon Kids, we believe that children’s books can be both visually stunning and deeply meaningful — objects that invite exploration, inspire imagination, and bring joy to both kids and adults.
We publish a global list from our teams in London and New York, focusing on high-design, concept-driven books covering everything from tactile board books and interactive novelty titles to collectible nonfiction for older children. Our list blends innovative nonfiction, playful education, and format-led storytelling, often blurring the line between learning and play.
Our small (but mighty!) team is working across multiple seasons, and as everything comes together, we are collectively thrilled about the incredible books we’re working on! I’m particularly excited about a new series spin-off of our bestselling Cook in a Book series called Celebrate in a Book, starting with Christmas, coming September 2026.
I also can’t wait for Lots of Dots, a board book coming this Fall by the legendary artist Yayoi Kusama. It invites young children to explore her signature world of dots through rhythmic text that is playful, simple, and perfect for reading aloud. As the dots change in size, number, and color, children will learn important early concepts —an approach we strive to incorporate throughout our kids list.
We also have some gorgeously illustrated nonfiction, adorable new novelty books, and a series of neon-hued seasonal pop-up books that we’re all obsessing over.
What makes you say yes to a submission?
More than anything, we look for conceptual strength. Is the idea or topic original? Will it stand out in a sea of books at retail? Does it invite interaction, curiosity, or wonder?
We’re especially drawn to submissions where the form and function are inseparable, like the free-standing globe format of Sue Lowell Gallion’s Our World series or A Family of Trees: My First of Forests, which when unfolded showcases a lush temperate forest-scape that is as long as a king-size bed. Instead of feeling like a gimmick, the format reinforces the topic in a meaningful way. We’re so lucky that Phaidon is a company that leads with art, design, and production, so we’re able to prioritize complicated formats in a way other houses sometimes can’t. If it feels like something we haven’t seen before—something that has to exist as a book—that’s when we get excited.
How are you currently building your list?
We’re building our list with intention—focusing on originality, global relevance, and timeless design. We’re especially looking to add humor to the list and to expand into more high-interest categories like vehicles, fantasy creatures, early concepts, and seasonal topics, while always keeping an eye out for series potential.
Right now, we’re prioritizing nonfiction titles that feel fresh and conceptually inventive, especially in areas like STEAM, nature, art, and early learning. This year, we released Formula Fast, which combines the thrill of F1 racing with accessible learning through fascinating facts and detailed illustrations. We‘re aiming to expand our fiction offerings when they intersect naturally with themes that resonate for us, such as art and food.
We work closely with artists, designers, and authors whose work pushes boundaries and elevates the traditional form of a book. Whether it’s a debut talent or an established name, we’re drawn to creators who believe that collaboration is key to making something extraordinary.
What is on your manuscript/illustration wish list?
We’re actively seeking:
- Concept-driven nonfiction with a clever or unexpected angle—especially in STEAM, nature, animals, art, food, and design.
- Interactive formats that go beyond the standard lift-the-flap or pull-tab. Think books that unfold, transform, or invite tactile play.
- Novelty elements that are integral to the story or learning, not just added on.
- Picture books where design is narrative; the shape, structure, or sequence enhances the concept/topic.
- Early learning books with a strong visual voice—think color, shape, or alphabet books that feel fresh and design-forward.
- Nonfiction books for older children (8–14) on topics that are just off the beaten path, and feel bold, collectible, and visually rich.
- Clever, voice-forward writing––rhythmic, witty, and confident, with language that elevates the concept.
We’re especially excited by work that blurs the line between art and education, or that invites kids to see the world differently—whether through a unique point of view, an inventive structure, or a truly original idea.
What we’re not looking for: narrative fiction, character-driven stories, middle grade or YA novels, or illustrated books for adults.
Our sweet spot? When curiosity meets craft, and a book feels like a discovery in your hands.
If you have a manuscript that fits, you can query for month of April. Please follow the directions below!