What kinds of books do you publish?

As an independent children's book publisher, we mainly publish board books and picture books. Board books are short, simple, and sturdy, so they're perfect for babies and toddlers (ages 0-3). Picture books are longer and more involved, and children often enjoy reading them until age 7 or 8—and often even older. The Our Bodies Are Amazing! series has simple text for children and scientific detail that could be used in graduate school courses!

Part of our mission at blue manatee press is to promote shared reading and unplugged, hands-on, creative play, ideas that are reflected in many of our books. We also like for our books to integrate health, parenting and/or educational themes whenever possible, and we welcome illustrations in many different mediums.

Where can I find your books?

Many libraries and independent bookstores around the United States carry our titles, so shop local and check out stores in your area! You can use sites such as Indiebound and Bookshop to help you locate your local independent bookstore and order directly through them. You can also order our books online from many major retail sites including: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Indigo (CA). Browse our website and check out our individual board and picture books. Each page has its own “Shop” buttons.

How do I book one of your authors for an event at my bookstore, school, or library?

Please contact us for information regarding author events.

How do I use your books for In-Person or Virtual Storytime at my bookstore or library?

We would love for you to use our books for your In-Person or Virtual Storytime! Bookstores and Libraries have permission and are more than welcome to use our books as long as they credit the author/illustrator and publisher (that’s us!) before beginning the reading. For a great example of a successful Virtual Storytime, click here to watch a reading of our book Sherm the Germ by Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library.

Do you have any family friendly home activities or resources?

Yes! Many of our books have activities inspired by them including coloring pages, arts and crafts, recipes, memory matching games, and more! Check out our Rainy Day Resources page for our printable and downloadable activities. Also make sure to check in with your local independent bookstores and libraries for virtual events!

I work for the media and would like to cover blue manatee press. Are your authors available for interviews?

Yes, our authors are available to talk about their books. Please contact us if you would like to set up an interview with a particular author or illustrator.

How can I apply to work for blue manatee press?

We are small (yet mighty) and family-run and have limited staff. You are welcome to email us with employment inquiries.

Do you ever partner with non-profits or other health organizations?

Yes! We are proud to partner with organizations like Reach Out and Read, Healthy Families America, Prevent Child Abuse America, Nurse-Family Partnership, Child Life, WIC, and more. If you are from a hospital, non-profit, or other health organization, please click here for more information on partnering with us, or contact us to place an order.

How do I submit a manuscript for publication?

We unfortunately, are not currently considering unsolicited submissions.

How do I follow you on social media?

We’re so glad you asked! We appreciate you wanting to support and follow us on our social media platforms. Be sure to check us out on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and YouTube! Either click the links provided or click on the corresponding image below. For our most up-to-date information, news, events, sales, and more, subscribe to our Newsletter!

What is your relationship to Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore?

The founder of blue manatee press owned and operated blue manatee children's bookstore in Cincinnati, Ohio once upon a time (2001-2019). It was a magical place, beloved by the community and thrice nominated for the Women’s National Book Association Pannell Award, honoring the best bookstores in the US. This experience deeply informed the work and purpose of Blue Manatee Press.

In January of 2019, we decided to dedicate all of our energy and focus to the publishing arm (flipper?) of the business, and so the bookstore was donated to form the Blue Manatee Literacy Project (BMLP), a nonprofit where for every book sold, one was donated to literacy efforts in the community (tens of thousands). Unfortunately, largely due to restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic, BMLP was dissolved in 2022.

It was wonderful while it lasted and we are grateful for the experience! See some throwback pictures below!