Josh Gregory
Editor
Josh Gregory
Editor
I’m drawn to stories that encourage readers to push themselves in new directions, challenge preconceived notions, and pursue any goals they might have, no matter how seemingly out of reach. I want to read about characters who have unique perspectives, come from diverse backgrounds, think outside the box, and aren’t afraid to be different.
Picture books are my main focus, and I especially like to see stories that approach social and emotional issues—even the most difficult ones—through a kid’s perspective. I’m also interested in stories that highlight underrepresented cultural traditions, historical tales about little-known figures whose accomplishments could resonate with a modern audience, and stories about kids making a difference in their communities or the world at large. Right now, I am also very interested in acquiring holiday stories and books about bullying.
In chapter books, I’d like to see manuscripts with unique, relatable characters and a strong core concept that can be used to drive future stories in a potential series. For those who are comfortable working with established properties, I am also seeking potential writers for some of AW’s ongoing series.
In MG and YA novels, I mostly want to see realistic, contemporary stories where characters are dealing with issues that will be relatable to readers. I am open to genre elements, but they should not be the primary focus, and regardless of the setting, readers should be able to see themselves in the characters and situations depicted.
Josh Gregory
A lifelong reader and accumulator of books, Josh Gregory has equal appreciation for a good story and a nice-looking cover. The Boxcar Children was one of the formative books of his childhood, so getting to work on the series as an adult is a real thrill for him. Before joining Albert Whitman as an editor, he spent more than 10 years writing and editing children’s nonfiction. When he’s not reading or seeking out new books for his collection, he can often be found bouncing between Chicago’s many movie theaters and music venues.
Molly Fletcher
Molly is a marketing professional who has worked in publishing since 2016. She joined the AW team in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic to help with content strategy and email marketing. She hails from Waukegan, Illinois, Ray Bradbury’s hometown, and likes to recommend Dandelion Wine to strangers. Molly loves sloths and is in a committed relationship with the Oxford comma.
Tom MacDonald
A passion for reading is a core part of Tom’s parenting philosophy and he spends each night reading with his 3 daughters. There is absolutely no substitute for the sparks of creativity Tom gets when they talk about what they listened to and read. Tom puts these sparks of creativity to use developing and executing unique marketing campaigns for Albert Whitman & Company. Tom earned a Master’s degree from DePaul University in Digital Communication and Media Arts and a Bachelor’s degree from Purdue University.
Martha Martinez
Martha Martinez joined Albert Whitman & Company as Administrator, Project Manager. She never imagined that she would be working for a children’s books publishing company, having spent her entire career in the public sector. Martha is a graduate of Northern Illinois University with a B.S. in Marketing. Her experience includes more than 33 years in government. She is excited to start this new chapter in her life working with such a talented team.
Rick DeMonico
Rick DeMonico’s interest in art started at a very young age, tracing comic book panels and drawing animals. He later turned his attention to graphic design while attending the High School of Art and Design and School of Visual Arts in New York City. Rick was previously a Senior Art Director at Scholastic. He recently relocated to the Chicago area and is excited to begin a new chapter as Albert Whitman’s Art Director.
Min Huang
Min Huang was born in Guangzhou, China and moved to Chicago in 2004. She likes traveling and trying new and exciting foods from all over the world. She is currently responsible for business analysis and purchasing at Albert Whitman & Company. She enjoys what she does and is thrilled to be a part of the AW family to create books that make a difference for children.
Sue Funari
Sue Funari is Albert Whitman’s accounts receivable, collections, and credits wiz. She’s been making the one-hour-and-fifteen-minute commute from practically Wisconsin to Albert Whitman & Company’s offices since September 1990! Sue likes reading, cooking, and being outdoors (she even teaches snowmobile safety classes!), and especially loves spending the weekends with her hubby on their motorcycle.
John Quattrocchi
John Quattrocchi is the President and co-owner of Albert Whitman & Company. John and Patrick McPartland, friends since first grade, purchased Albert Whitman in January 2008. John’s global business expertise acquired over 25 years include strategic planning and execution, supply chain management, finance and accounting, and operations. John considers himself one of the luckiest people in the world because he works with an incredibly dedicated and talented team of people.