Our Team

Discover the talent, creativity, and purpose driving the team at Picnic Heist.

	Janet Bruins, Founder & Publisher Janet is the founder and publisher of Picnic Heist, a publishing house dedicated to creating beautiful, standout picture books with purpose and heart. With a background in engineering, corporate finance, and an MBA from Georgetown University, Janet combines her expertise with a passion for storytelling to elevate authors and illustrators. She is committed to publishing diverse, high-quality books and fostering meaningful connections with readers of all ages.
	Jeff Chang, Asia Regional Director With a keen eye for storytelling that resonates across cultures, Jeff is dedicated to connecting diverse voices with global audiences. His expertise and passion for high-quality, impactful books play a vital role in expanding Picnic Heist’s reach worldwide.
	Sophia Jimenez, Acquisition Editor Sophia is a professional editor with over a decade of experience working with fiction and nonfiction for all ages. At Simon & Schuster, she acquired books for both children’s and adult audiences, collaborating with bestselling and award-winning authors. A former board member of Latinx in Publishing, she co-founded a mentorship program for Latine writers. Learn more about her editorial services at Sophia-Jimenez.com.
	Rachael Stein, Editor Rachael is a freelance children’s book editor with over five years of experience at publishers such as Sterling Publishing, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, and Scholastic. She has worked on a range of children’s books, from picture books to YA nonfiction. Highlights of her work include Martin McLean, Middle School Queen by Alyssa Zaczek, Queen of Physics by Teresa Robeson, and Ramen for Everyone by Pat Tanumihardja. Learn more at Rachael-Edits.com.
	Julie Scheina, Consulting Editor Julie has nearly 20 years of experience editing acclaimed and bestselling books for children and young adults. A former senior editor at Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, she has worked on more than 300 titles and with authors and artists who have received Caldecott and Newbery Medals, been finalists for the National Book Award, and topped the New York Times bestseller list. Learn more about her editorial services at Julie Scheina Editorial Services.
	Alyssa Gangaram, Graphic Designer Alyssa loves storytelling in all forms, from murals to illustration to animation. Inspired by her faith, favorite films, and iced lattes, she believes she was created to create and brings that passion to every project. "Learn more about her illustration and design work at Alyssagangaram.MyPortfolio.com

Profile illustrations by Alyssa Gangaram.