Books and the People Who Make Them

Ages 8 to 12, Grades 3 to 7

This unique, fun and informative introduction to the publishing world shows young readers how a book makes its journey from the writer’s notebook to the reader’s hands.

What’s missing from the world of children’s books? A book about how a book gets made!

This behind-the-scenes exploration features colorful and quirky double page spreads that depict every stage in the life of a book. Young readers will learn why an editor’s to-do list is so long; what’s important to a book designer; how a book gets sold to libraries and stores; and what a printing press looks like. They’ll discover jobs they might not have known about, including literary critics, librarians, and sales representatives. And they’ll learn about topics beyond publishing, such as fan fiction, ebooks and audiobooks, and book collecting. Most of all, they’ll realize how the book they are reading actually came to be made.

Perfect for readers to peruse on their own or with their favorite grown up, this book is the first of its kind—a perfect complement to every young booklover’s library.

About the Author

STÉPHANIE VERNET is the founder of the Picture Book Agency, which represents French publishers abroad. She lives in Villard-de-Lans, France. 

CAMILLE DE CUSSAC is a member of the Jaune Cochon illustrator collective. She regularly collaborates with children’s book publishers. She lives in France.