Faber has announced the promotion of Ama Badu to the position of commissioning editor. In this new role, Badu will oversee acquisitions in several genres, including picture books, young fiction, middle-grade, and young adult (YA) literature. She will report directly to Alice Swan, the associate publisher.

Recent Contributions and Acquisitions

Since joining Faber in January 2020, Badu has significantly contributed to the company’s offerings. Her notable acquisitions include the Forge and Fracture trilogy by Brittany N. Williams, Sonora Reyes’s The Golden Boy’s Guide to Bipolar, and a picture book from Sumana Seeboruth, an alumna of the Faber Academy. Additionally, Badu serves as a judge for the esteemed FAB Prize.

Team Recognition and Future Goals

Leah Thaxton, the children’s publisher at Faber, expressed her enthusiasm for Badu’s promotion, stating, “Ama is an exceptionally talented editor, and I am truly delighted to see her promoted. At Faber, we are fully focused on providing the very best editorial guidance. We know we need to acquire and deliver more books that appeal to our ever-more distracted readers. Earlier this year, we launched the Action! Prize to attract a greater breadth of stories. I am so glad that Ama is helping us shape that work.”

Thaxton noted the success of Faber, citing the exceptional number of major prize listings within the Children’s and YA list this year, highlighting the strength of their editorial team.

Ama Badu’s Vision for the Future

Reflecting on her new position, Badu shared her excitement: “I’m thrilled to continue acquiring exceptional stories in this new role, ones that feel fresh, fun, and fiercely inspiring. The industry has changed so much in the five years I’ve been a part of it. The production value of books has greatly increased, placing such beautiful finished copies into the hands of readers. Fantasy is taking center stage, with YA and crossover at the forefront. We engage with readers in a much more personal way and through more social channels.”

She emphasized a collaborative team culture that embraces change, stating, “We have become bolder, more dynamic, and ambitious while keeping hope and joy at the core of our ever-evolving list. That is a beautiful thing.”