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Allison Wortche

children's book author freelance editor

Allison Wortche children's book editor

Hello, and welcome!

I am an author and editor with eighteen years of experience in the children's book industry. 

Please check out my books and editorial services below.

Allison 

Books

MY BOOKS

RUBY AND THE ITSY-BITSY ICKY BUG

Ruby and the Itsy-Bitsy Icky Bug cover

When Ruby discovers a bug on her window one morning, she freaks out! She loves furry animals and ocean creatures and even dinosaurs. But NOT bugs! 

No amount of blowing or squirting or yelling will get this bug to go away. It will get Ruby stuck in a time-out. 

With lots of time to study Mr. Yuck-Bug, Ruby decides he may have some interesting qualities after all. His little antennae might even be an itsy bit . . . cute? And when night falls, Ruby’s new friend has a brilliant surprise! 

Allison Wortche and Sally Walker show readers how something can go from icky to incredible—if you just take a closer look.

* “Ruby is a delightfully expressive protagonist. . . .

Bring this book for science-themed story time.”

—Bulletin, Starred Review

“This sweet story about changing one’s mind and seeing things from a new perspective will charm young readers.”

—Kirkus Reviews

Watch the BOOK TRAILER!

Download the ACTIVITY KIT!

Ruby and the Itsy-Bitsy Icky Bug Activity Kit.png

OLIVERS LOLLIPOP

Oliver's Lollipop cover Allison Wortche Andres Landazabal

Oliver is sure his new rainbow lollipop is the most amazing thing at the zoo. Flamingos? Pandas? Lions? He barely notices them.

 

But when his lollipop is suddenly GONE, Oliver discovers

there's so much to see! And sharing the day with his little brother just might be the sweetest treat of all.

“Wortche employs simple yet evocative prose. . . . A gentle, well-paced reminder to live in the moment.” —Publisher’s Weekly

“Vivid, bright paintings illuminate the well-told narrative centering a child’s singular fixation, disappointment, and family warmth.” Kirkus Reviews

“Heartwarming. . . . Landazábal’s gouache and watercolor art is striking, depicting both the sights at the zoo and the lollipop in dazzlingly vibrant hues.” —Bulletin

“The incredible use of colors and compositions takes us on an emotional journey. . . . A gentle and cosy reminder that even when life forces us into a change of perspective, it is worth enjoying with the people we love. A wonderful read.” —Children’s Books Ireland

Watch the BOOK TRAILER!

Download the ACTIVITY KIT!

Oliver's Lollipop Activity Kit.png

ROSIE SPROUTS TIME TO SHINE

Rosie Sprout's Time to Shine by Allison Wortche illustrated by Patrice Barton

* “An impressive new author. Wortche possesses both

a refreshing directness and a willingness to trust her readers.”

—Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

“There’s not a misstep in sight, 

from Wortche’s sure plotting to her subtle ending.”

—Horn Book

“Rosie and her diverse class of pink-cheeked friends are full of appeal.”

—School Library Journal

“Kids will absorb the botany facts that are informally woven into the story, while the outsider kid’s recognition and self-acceptance make for great drama.”

—Booklist 

 
“Very real emotions are at the heart of Rosie Sprout. . . .  

All children deserve a chance to shine.”

—The New York Times Book Review

I LOVE SCIENCE board book series

Explore with sliders, lift-the-flaps, wheels, and more!

These colorful novelty board books are designed to introduce scientific concepts to babies and toddlers.

Simple text, bold artwork, and fun hands-on elements combine to create an interactive

and educational experience for the youngest of scientists.

I Love Science board book by Allison Wortche and Steve Mack
I Love Space board book by Allison Wortche and Steve Mack
I Love Engineering board book by Allison Wortche and Steve Mack
I Love Genetics board book by Allison Wortche and Steve Mack

Peek inside 

I LOVE ENGINEERING!

EDITORIAL SERVICES

I provide editorial and creative guidance to authors of picture books through young adult novels,

from broad story development to detailed line edits.

 

As a Senior Editor at Knopf Books for Young Readers/

Penguin Random House, I acquired and edited picture books, middle-grade, and YA. In my 13 years at Knopf,

my list garnered over 50 starred reviews and included

New York Times Bestsellers, Caldecott and Newbery

Honor Books, Edgar Award Winners,

ALA Notables, and YALSA BFYA titles.

In 2017, I launched Allison Wortche Editorial Services, offering critiques, developmental editing, line editing,

and query letter feedback. If you have a project you'd

like to work on together, please be in touch!

Allison Wortche Editorial Services

A selection of books Ive edited:

Editorial Freelancers Association member
Editorial Services

Stay tuned for

NEWS & UPCOMING EVENTS

News and events
Allison Wortche children's book editor
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