Little, Brown Books for Young Readers has announced changes to its editorial structure, including the launch of a boutique imprint and the establishment of two distinct editorial groups. More news about the imprint name, logo, and launch list will be shared early next year.
Editor Alvina Ling is being promoted to v-p, publisher of the new imprint. Ling has been v-p, editor-in-chief since 2014 and recently celebrated 25 years with LBYR.
Megan Tingley, LBYR president and publisher, said: "The opportunity to work with Alvina Ling is a golden ticket for any creator in the children's book universe. She is a brilliant tastemaker who has a remarkable gift for attracting and developing literary and artistic talent, championing underrepresented voices, and bringing life-changing works of literature to young people. I have no doubt this imprint will continue her stellar trajectory."
The editorial team will now be divided into two editorial groups, one focused on young readers (0–12) and the other on older readers and upper nonfiction (12+).
Erin Berger will join LBYR, effective November 10, in the newly created role of v-p, publishing director, overseeing picture book, middle grade, and graphic publishing. A 25-year veteran of the industry, Berger was previously at Scholastic, where she served as senior v-p of trade marketing and publicity for six years, following roles at Penguin Young Readers and Simon & Schuster.
LBYR noted that Berger "has a proven track record advising on acquisitions and collaborating with editors, authors, and agents to build their brands in the marketplace."
"I have long admired the brilliant editorial vision behind LBYR's highly curated, award-winning, and bestselling list," Berger said. "After more than two decades working on the marketing and publicity side of publishing, I am eager to leverage my expertise into this editorial leadership role and work with my acclaimed colleagues on creative strategies to support our authors and reach our readers."
In other editorial changes, Lisa Yoskowitz, formerly v-p, executive editorial director, has been promoted to v-p, publishing director, overseeing LBYR's titles for older readers, including the young adult, new adult, and upper nonfiction categories. Yoskowitz joined LBYR in 2014 following roles at Dutton and Disney-Hyperion and is the founder of Requited, LBYR's recently launched new adult imprint.
Regarding the changes, Tingley said, "We are thrilled to welcome Erin Berger, who has a wealth of experience and is energized to strengthen our publishing strategy for picture books, middle grade, and graphic novels. And Lisa Yoskowitz, who will be overseeing young adult, new adult, and nonfiction, has the rare combination of editorial chops and business savvy that has helped us innovate and grow for the past 10 years. I am confident our outstanding team of editors and our authors will thrive under this new leadership structure."