MC-Guide
Content Writing
Website 10: Hmhco.com
How Can You Earn Money Writing For “hmhco.com” Website
This guide shows you, step by step, how a beginner can learn to pitch and sell stories to hmhco.com.
You will learn what Hmhco.com wants, how to test your idea, how to write a pitch, and how payment roughly works. You can use this like a small SOP.
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (HMH) — Beginner’s Guide
How to submit manuscripts, artwork or illustrations to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt — and earn by writing
This guide walks a beginner through what HMH accepts, how to prepare manuscripts and artwork, important legal/rights checkpoints, alternate paid-writing routes, pitch templates, and a final checklist so you can confidently submit or pitch — and start earning from articles, guest posts, or book work.
Key primary sources for HMH submission rules and contacts are the company’s support pages and editorial imprint notes. (See the resources list at the end for direct links.) :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Section 1 · What HMH is
Quick view: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt in one paragraph
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (HMH) is an education-first publisher that creates K–12 curriculum, assessments, and teacher resources — and historically has included trade children’s imprints (books for young readers). Their corporate site and support pages offer the official contact points and policies for manuscript or artwork submissions. For core HMH help and support pages, see HMH’s customer support hub. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Primarily K–12 curriculum and learning resources, plus specialist trade imprints for children’s books (historically Clarion, HMH Books for Young Readers, and newer imprints such as Versify).
Because HMH is large and has multiple divisions and imprint policies, always confirm submission rules on the specific imprint page or the HMH support article before sending anything. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- HMH support portal — the official article “Submitting Manuscripts, Artwork or Illustrations.” :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- HMH corporate site — company, contact, and imprint pages. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Individual imprint pages (for example, Versify) — some imprints may accept direct email submissions or have specific contacts. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Section 2 · Which HMH imprints accept unsolicited submissions?
The short, practical answer
HMH’s support pages note that unsolicited manuscript submissions are generally not accepted across the company, with limited exceptions handled at the imprint level (for example, Versify has been known to accept queries via a provided email address). Always check the HMH support article first — and then the specific imprint (Versify, Clarion, etc.) for current, live instructions. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Most large education publishers (including HMH) receive far more submissions than they can read
Because of that, many parts of HMH operate closed-to-unrequested-submissions policies — but imprints sometimes run open calls. If an imprint accepts submissions it will say so on their page or the HMH support article. Always start with HMH’s support article. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
If you have a children’s picture book or illustrations
Check imprint pages like Versify and look for contact emails or submission calls. Historically, Versify has been a place where queries were welcome via email (versify.info@hmhco.com) — but confirm the address on the current imprint page before sending. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Section 3 · Preparing a manuscript (step-by-step)
How to format, package and present your work — the editor-friendly way
Whether you aim at HMH or any large publisher, follow this short checklist to make your manuscript easy to read and evaluate by a busy editor.
- One file, clean formatting. Use a standard font (Times New Roman or Arial), 12 pt, double-spaced for prose unless an imprint requests otherwise.
- Title page: title, your name, contact email, city, and short 1–2 sentence bio (3–5 lines max).
- Header/footer: page numbers and manuscript title on each page (editors like this).
- Word count: put it at the top of the manuscript or in the cover note (e.g., “Word count: 56,400”).
- For nonfiction: include a one-page proposal, chapter outline, and sample chapters if requested.
- Send plain DOC or DOCX unless the imprint asks for PDF. Avoid unusual file types.
- If you include images in a children’s book submission, most publishers ask for copies, not originals; check the imprint instructions for artwork handling. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
- Label files clearly: lastname_title_ ms.docx or lastname_title_artwork.pdf.
What editors check first (so address these up-front)
- Is the voice correct for the target reader? (age-range, curriculum need, classroom use).
- Does the submission follow the imprint’s requested format? You will lose points if the submission ignores explicit instructions.
- Are permissions needed? If you include third-party text or images you must document permissions — see the HMH permissions page. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
Section 4 · Artwork & illustration submissions
Preparing sample art, dummies, and illustration portfolios
Art and illustration are handled differently from text. Most houses ask for copies or tear sheets (not originals), a small selection of your best work, and clear labeling. The HMH support article specifically gives guidance on art samples and directs illustrators how to submit to design departments when open. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
- 5–12 of your strongest pieces (color copies, not originals unless asked).
- A brief one-paragraph bio describing your style, software, or technique (watercolor, digital, mixed media).
- A few consecutive pages/double spreads if you have picture-book dummies (include text if it’s part of the dummy; otherwise send art samples separately per instructions).
- Portfolio link (Behance, ArtStation, personal site) for quick editor review.
If an imprint requests physical samples, do not send originals unless explicitly requested. Many design departments will accept printed tear sheets + a link to an online portfolio. Always check the imprint’s preferred contact method first. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
Section 5 · Rights, permissions & contracts
What you must understand before you sign anything
Large publishers like HMH will offer contract terms that include advances, royalty rates, and the rights they want (territory, formats, translations, subsidiary rights). Many questions arise about rights reversion, permissions, and what the publisher can do with your work — so pay attention to the contract language and consider getting professional advice if the terms are complex. HMH also has a permissions department to handle third-party rights requests. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
- Rights granted: which rights are exclusive, which are limited (e.g., print worldwide, ebook worldwide, audio, translations).
- Reversion: under what circumstances rights revert to you (out of print, sales thresholds, time limit).
- Payment: advance amount, royalty splits, and payment schedule.
- Subsidiary rights: film, TV, merchandising — who controls and how income is split?
- Warranties: that you own or have cleared all material and permissions for included content.
- Before signing, ask for a clear plain-language schedule of payments (advance, royalties, when first payment comes).
- If you are unsure about legal terms, request a contract redline period and consult a publishing lawyer or experienced agent.
- Keep copies of all correspondence and the final signed agreement.
Section 6 · Pitch templates & email samples
Ready-to-use templates you can adapt
Below are short templates for common situations: (A) a short query to an imprint that accepts email queries, (B) a pitch to a magazine or blog editor for a paid article, and (C) an illustrator portfolio cover note. Edit the bracketed parts.
Short query email to an imprint (example for Versify if they accept queries)
Subject: Query: [Book Title] — [Age Range / Genre]
Hello [Editor name or “Versify Editor”],
I’m a [brief bio: e.g., “children’s author and teacher in Boston”] with [one-line credential or clip link]. I’m querying a [picture book / MG novel / YA novel] titled “[Book Title]” (approx. [word count]/[pages]).
Short pitch: [two–three sentence hook that explains the story, central conflict, and why it’s unique].
Attached: full manuscript (or sample pages) and a one-page synopsis. Online portfolio / clips: [link].
Thank you for your time — I’d be glad to send more if you’re interested.
Best,
[Your name] • [email] • [phone (optional)]
Magazine or blog article pitch (paid pieces)
Subject: Pitch: “[Headline / Working title]” — [Short descriptor]
Hi [Editor name],
Idea (one-line): [What story or how-to you’ll write and who it’s for.]
Why it matters (two lines): [Problem + why readers care].
Planned structure (bullets): 1) [section 1], 2) [section 2], 3) [result / conclusion].
Why me: [1–2 lines: relevant experience, prior clips with links].
Estimated length: [X words]. Images: I can provide screenshots, original photos, or diagrams.
Thanks for considering — I can send an outline or 500–800 word sample.
[Your name] • [link to clips / portfolio] • [email]
Illustrator portfolio cover note
Subject: Portfolio submission: [Your Name] — [medium/style]
Dear [Art Director],
I’m an illustrator working in [medium]. I’m sending [5–8] portfolio images (attached), plus a link to my online portfolio: [link]. I specialize in [children’s picture books / chapter book interiors / covers]. If there’s an open illustration call, I’d love to be considered.
Thank you,
[Your name] • [website / Instagram / Behance] • [email]
Section 7 · Alternative paid-writing routes
If HMH is closed to unsolicited work — how to build clips and earn now
Many writers turn to blogs, specialist magazines, paid platforms, and small publishers to build a portfolio and earn money while aiming for larger houses later. The table below lists approachable options and why they matter.
| Route | Why it helps | How to start |
|---|---|---|
| Dev.to / Medium / Substack | Fast publishing, control, potential paid subscribers (Medium Partner), portfolio pieces | Write 1500–2500 word tutorials or explainers, cross-post with permission, include clippable projects |
| Paid tech & trade outlets (SitePoint, A List Apart, The Write Life) | Paid per article and audience of editors who may notice your work | Read their “write for us” pages, study recent posts, pitch focused articles. (Example: SitePoint has clear contributor guidance.) |
| Small magazines & local publications | Build clips, editorial experience, faster turnaround | Find paying markets on Reedsy, Duotrope, or paid-market lists; pitch local education magazines |
| Freelance marketplaces (Upwork, Fiverr) | Client work pays and builds practical experience | Create clear gig descriptions for blog posts, educational content, or curriculum writing |
Use resources such as Reedsy’s publisher lists and the Writer Beware blog to research publishers before you submit (avoid predatory offers). :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
Section 8 · Final checklist & resources
Short checklist before you hit send — and a long resource list
- Submitting Manuscripts, Artwork or Illustrations — HMH Support. (Primary HMH guidance for submissions.) :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
- HMH corporate site — official company & imprint pages. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
- Obtaining Rights & Permissions — HMH Support — where to ask for permissions and related contacts. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
- HMH Customer Support — contact routes for platform and corporate help. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}
- Versify / Meet the Editors (example listing) — shows Versify editorial contacts (historically versify.info@hmhco.com). Use imprint page to confirm current email. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}
- Reedsy — Publisher directories & guides (great for researching publishers and imprints). :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}
- Writer Beware — essential for spotting predatory publishers and bad contracts. :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}
- SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators) — training, showcases, and industry contacts for children’s authors and illustrators. :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}
- Publishers Weekly — industry news (useful for corporate changes; note: HMH trade sale coverage by PW). :contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28}
- HarperCollins Permissions (trade titles formerly under HMH trade) — for permissions related to older trade titles now managed by HarperCollins. :contentReference[oaicite:29]{index=29}