We are looking for simple and imaginative ways of presenting scientific questions and concepts to children in the age groups of 4 to 12 that extend their world view beyond what they can see, hear and feel. Ideally the manuscript tells a story that places the child at the center of a process of questioning and touches on unanswered questions. We welcome complete manuscript submissions as well as ‘concept’ submissions from scientists and science enthusiasts for picture books as well as early and middle grade chapter books.
Complete manuscripts should build a story or a character that the child can relate to in a manner that could be classified as mainstream children’s fiction. Picture book submissions should be between 350 and 1500 words while chapter books can range from 30 to 100 pages of text. If illustration plays a key role in the communication of the concept, this should be described clearly alongside the text in the manuscript. All complete submissions must also include an appendix of no more than 500 words that provides supplementary explanation for parents and teachers, providing answers to key questions that are likely to arise during the reading. The submission should also be accompanied by a short letter outlining the key objectives and message of the manuscript as well as your qualifications with respect to the subject matter. All manuscripts will be subject to both a scientific review as well as a literary review. Note that scientific accuracy can, and often must be displaced by literary license so long as the core concepts are properly communicated. For example, in Jig, Jiggle, Sneeze viruses jig and jiggle and play Marco Polo but adhere to scientifically accurate mechanisms of viral infection. Text book like approaches will not be considered.
Concept submissions should outline the key objective and walk through a step by step explanation of the concept including a description of any illustrated tools or comparisons required. If accepted, the concept will be turned into a story by one of our freelance writers, whom you will work closely with to ensure that the concept is not distorted by the story line. Concept submissions will be published under an in-house pseudonym and concept credit will be provided on the inner jacket or flap. From time to time we may hold concept competitions for particular topics. Check back here for notifications!
It is important that manuscripts and concept submissions are objective and not overselling a particular theory that may yet be unproven. We are, in fact, very happy to consider manuscripts that speak to current scientific debates, particularly those that challenge common belief.
Topics of high immediate interest include the nature of light, dark matter and dark energy and electromagnetic waves. However, we will consider any manuscript or concept that adheres to the general principles outlined above.
All submissions can be sent electronically to editor@magicworldmedia.com. If you have an idea but are not sure if it is what we are looking for, please send us a presubmission enquiry with a brief description. Please note that as a new company we are only able to publish three to five books a year. Consequently we have to be very selective. That said, if we receive a larger number of manuscripts of exceptional merit, we will find a way to make it happen.
