how can I get a children's book published?

Question

I just finished working on a scary children's book and I want to know where I can send it to get it published. I know you have to go through literary agents but I want to know which would be the right ones.

Answer 1

Go to your public library and check for LMP (Literary Market Place) for lists of agents, but also take a look at a book called Children's Writer's Market. It lists book publishers and the type of material they publish. Some will accept unsolicited manuscripts but as you said, an agent is best.

Another resource is Jeff Herman's Guide to Book Editors, Publishers and Agents, but Writer's Market is the standard. You might also take a look at a magazine called Writer's Digest which has a lot of helpful information.

Self-publishing is another route that some have taken successfully. Otter Creek Press was created just for one author but has since published one or two others. I think their website is www.otterpress.com. You might also want to look at regional publishers who will sometimes put out a book by a local author. The bucks might not be there at first, but you'll have more credibility to attract an agent.

Good luck!

Answer 2

Joero:
I wrote and self published two books and wound up self publishing them. Check the web for publishers and agents. They will tell you what they are interested in publishing and how to send your manuscript. If excepted, they will look after the marketing. As a new writer you will get around 15%of books sold and an upfront $$ amount. Best selling authors can demand up to 80 - 90 %.
Anyhow it is not easy and this is why I self published. Be sure to check (Warnings and Cautions for Writers.) There are bad guys out there trying to take your $$. Should you go the Self Publish route, give me a shout I can help and charge nothing. [e-mail]
Wayne Russell, The Vagabond Writer.