How Do you Get A Children's Book Published?

Question

I enjoy writing children's stories (like the storybooks with apx.8 sentences per page with an illustration) and was wondering what the process is to publish. Also, I do not illustrate, so I do not have drawings to submit with the story, so in that case, how would you present your manuscript (formating, etc.)?

Everyone's info is very helpful-thanks! One more Q..after you've written your story, is it normal to have someone proof read it before sending it to publishers or do you send it to publishers first and then they make text changes?

Answer 1

Persiphone is correct - the children's book market is very tough and competitive. However, that doesn't mean you shouldn't pursue it if you enjoy writing children's books.

First, I recommend purchasing at least one book: A current copy of Childrens Writers & Illustrators Market. This book will provide you with a basic foundation and understanding when embarking on a career in writing children's books.

Next, if you're truly serious, join The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. (Web site link below). Any serious children's book author is a member and they, too, will provide you with a wealth of information, sources, advice, contacts and links, etc.

Don't sweat the illustrations. Children's book publishers have their own stable of freelance illustrators and artists who they pair up with authors depending on which artists' style they think best fits each book.

A little tip to get you going: A children's picture book is 32 pages long, including title pages. Your text should be at least 28 pages (even if it's just one word or phrase per page, format it like this.)

Other than the page length, you write your manuscript like any other, including a title page, one inch margins, 12 pt. font in Courier or Times New Roman. The book I mentioned above will provide you other basic information.

It's a lot of work and frustration, so be prepared. Be prepared for rejection, but if you're truly into it, if it's your dream, if you are compelled to write, go for it!

Best of luck.

Answer 2

Children's books are absolutely the hardest thing to get published. 40% of the market is celebs writing kids books, 40% is established kids' writers and less than 20% is new writers. Read through the Resolved Questions here for a lot of information. The questiono has been asked a lot here. Buy a copy of Writers Market 2007 - I think they may also have a children's version. Start surfing through agents and see who is accepting children's books to read - I guarantee you it isnt many. Then learn how to write a good query letter and start working! Pax - C.

Answer 3

Publishing a e book is uncomplicated those days with the introduction of on line publishing, self publishing and digital publishing. do you recognize that the youngest author became 4 years previous? With the main magnificent coaching, strategies-set and of path, e book in hand - you're merely on your thank you to turning out to be the subsequent bestseller. :) I say reliable success! :)

Answer 4

first you have to send it to a publisher then wait a few weeks and they will tell you if they are gonna publish it and if they are then they will find a illustrator for you