Publishers pay tribute to 'indomitable' Marilyn Malin after death, aged 86

Publishers have paid tribute to Marilyn Malin, the "indomitable" former Methuen Children’s editorial director and agent, who has died aged 86. 

Malin, who was regarded as "the backbone" of the Methuen children’s list, became a literary agent in the 1980s before setting up her own agency.

"Marilyn was indomitable and her hard work and dedication to her authors was legendary," said Kate Wilson, managing director (m.d.) of Nosy Crow. "Her sense of the history of the children’s book business informed everything she did. She will be much missed."

Hilary Murray Hill, m.d. of Hachette Children’s, said: "Women like Marilyn are an inspiration. She contributed quietly and doggedly to sustaining quality in the modern children’s publishing industry. Her whole long life was committed to books, and she was a person of the kindest possible character. I doubt there will be another Marilyn and she will be greatly mourned."

Publisher Jane Nissen added: “Marilyn Malin was a far-sighted and highly intelligent publisher – equally at home in past, present and future children’s books. Working with and for her was a great privilege.”

Christine Baker, the former editor-in-chief of Gallimard Jeunesse, commented: "Methuen Children’s Books was one of the major leaders of British children’s book publishing in the 1980s, and Marilyn one of the eminent editorial directors of her time. I viewed her with great respect, and was in awe of her encyclopaedic knowledge. 

"The words awe and respect don’t correlate with her personality of genuine, if not excessive, modesty and discretion, but they are merited, and her gentleness and kindness did not hamper her steely determination; cautious and tactful, she was also decisive and never discouraged.

"She was truly the backbone of the Methuen children’s list, upholding its high standards. She always went the extra mile, with passion and generosity, caring for every editor, every author, every librarian, every bookseller, every international colleague. She was a European and a citizen of the world, and for her, words, pictures and art knew no frontiers. Book people of all backgrounds and cultures have connected with her enthusiasm and subtlety, several in their own languages, during her indefatigable travels, and meetings at international book fairs. Her sense of humour was impish, and her loyalty was freely given to friends."

Her funeral will take place on 23rd February at 2.30pm at Golders Green Crematorium. Donations instead of flowers can be made if desired to the British Heart Foundation. Industry members are invited to join the family at the Holiday Inn Henly’s Corner on Regents Park Road. There is car parking both at the crematorium and at the Holiday Inn.