Suzanne Carnell to Retire as Publisher of Two Hoots
Career Milestones and Achievements
Suzanne Carnell, a notable figure in children’s publishing, will step down from her role at Two Hoots in May after a distinguished 22-year tenure with Macmillan Children’s Books. Under her leadership, Two Hoots has flourished since its inception in 2016, garnering 18 prestigious awards both in the UK and abroad, including the esteemed CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal for the title There Is a Tribe of Kids by Lane Smith.
Leadership Transition
Following Carnell’s retirement, Helen Weir, currently serving as the editorial director, will take over as the new leader of Two Hoots. She will report directly to Gaby Morgan, the associate publisher at Macmillan.
A Legacy of Collaboration
Throughout her career, Carnell has collaborated with an impressive roster of authors and illustrators, including:
- Julia Donaldson
- Axel Scheffler
- Emily Gravett
- David Roberts
- Rod Campbell
- Lydia Monks
- Chris Riddell
- Frances Hardinge
- Roger McGough
- Sharon King-Chai
- Emma Chichester Clark
- Morag Hood
- Bethan Woollvin
- Lane Smith
Starting her career at Penguin in New Zealand, Carnell later transitioned to Hamish Hamilton in the UK and eventually focused on children’s literature at Puffin. She joined Macmillan Children’s Books in 2003 as the editorial director of picture and gift books, later becoming the publishing director.
Reflections and Future Plans
In her own words, Carnell expressed, “Having taken the decision to step back from it, I am more acutely aware than ever of just how privileged I am to have worked in this extraordinary industry, so full of talent, creativity, wit and passion. Over the years, I have been lucky enough to work with some of our most brilliant authors and illustrators, and with the most wonderful colleagues: I thank them all.”
She noted that creating Two Hoots was the pinnacle of her career and emphasized her confidence in the imprint’s future leadership: “As I step into the next phase of life, I take with me many wonderful memories, a shelf full of beautiful books, and many good friends.”