Assistant Marketing and Publicity Manager - Children's Books

Are you a passionate, creative, and strategic marketer with a love for children's books? Do you thrive on crafting campaigns that connect stories to readers in meaningful, buzzworthy ways? If so, Sourcebooks invites you to become a driving force behind the launch of Stonefruit Studio, our bold and heart-led new children’s imprint, while also supporting the growth of our wider award-winning kids’ list.  

As our Assistant Marketing & Publicity Manager, you’ll lead dynamic, full-funnel campaigns for books that make a difference — across picture books, middle grade, YA, nonfiction, and graphic novels. You’ll be instrumental in building an exciting new brand from the ground up while championing a wide-ranging and impactful list of kidlit titles. You’ll also hire and mentor a Marketing Assistant to support your campaigns — giving you the leadership opportunity to shape a small, mighty team from day one. 

This is a new, high-impact role that offers creative ownership, strategic influence, and the chance to work with some of the most inspiring voices in children’s publishing. 

This role can be hybrid from our Naperville, IL or New York City office, or fully remote from: AZ, CT, IL, LA, MA, MD, MN, NJ, NY, NV, OR, PA, TN, TX, WA, and WI.   

Salary range: $65,000 - $75,000/year - Starting pay is based on factors like location, experience, and relevant skills — ensuring a fair and competitive offer.   

What You'll Do 

• Drive end-to-end marketing and publicity campaigns that make headlines, grow audiences, and boost sales 

• Launch Stonefruit Studio into the world with strong brand voice, high-visibility campaigns, and reader engagement strategies 

• Pitch media and influencers across national, regional, and niche outlets — and build lasting industry relationships 

• Create trend-savvy social media content (think TikToks, Reels, memes, and campaigns that go beyond the grid) 

• Craft compelling copy for marketing collateral, press releases, author one-sheets, pitch decks, and more 

• Champion authors and illustrators with thoughtful, personalized support that grows their platforms 

• Plan and execute memorable events including book tours, school visits, and festival appearances 

• Collaborate across departments, integrating paid and organic strategies and leveraging performance data 

What You Bring 

• 5+ years of experience in marketing, publicity, or brand development (ideally within publishing, media, or a kid-centric brand) 

• A deep love of books and storytelling, with a pulse on what excites young readers and families 

• Hands-on social media fluency, with a knack for creating engaging, original, and platform-appropriate content 

• Excellent writing and pitching skills — you’re equally comfortable crafting a press release and hopping on a media call 

• Familiarity with Canva, CapCut, and basic video/design tools — Premiere Pro and Final Cut are a plus 

• A collaborative spirit, strong time management, and the confidence to take initiative in a fast-paced environment 

Why Sourcebooks? 

At Sourcebooks, we believe books change lives. We’re a fast-growing, mission-driven publishing house where ideas thrive, creativity is celebrated, and people come first. You'll join a collaborative, curious, and book-loving team that’s deeply committed to the future of storytelling — especially for young readers. 

Ready to Apply?
Please submit your resume, salary requirements and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and interest in this role. Applications without a portfolio will not be considered. Show us your passion and creativity — we’re looking for someone who’s as enthusiastic about this opportunity as we are! 

 Full-time employees are eligible for our comprehensive benefits program. Our range of benefits include, but are not limited to, Medical/Prescription drug insurance, Dental, Vision, Health Care/Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account, Health Savings Account 401(k), Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance, Life/AD&D Insurance, & generous paid time off. 
 
Sourcebooks values the array of talents and perspectives that a diverse workforce brings. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status.