How to Write and Publish a Children’s Book
By amy wilson
editor and writing teacher.
Learning how to write and publish a children’s book can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The longer we experience life’s ups and downs, the more we might want to pass our experiences onto the next generation. But good intentions aren’t the only determining factor rin how to write and publish a children’s book. It is important to understand the process of how to write and publish a children's book before you invest time and creative energy. This article provides an overview of the steps involved in writing and publishing a children's book, from generating a concept to getting it published.
How to Write and Publish a Children’s Book
Think of a unique, marketable idea.
Craft a lovable main character.
Structure the plot.
Revise.
Illustrate.
Publish.
Market your book.
How to Write and Publish a Children’s Book:
Getting Started
The first step is to think up a concept that works. This can be done by researching similar books in the genre and looking at their summaries to determine how your book is different. Know what the market is doing before you decide to participate in it.
The next step in learning how to write and publish a children’s book is to create a main character that children will love. This can be done by developing a profile of your ideal kid reader and making sure to craft a story with humor and heart that relates to something your audience might be going through.
How to Write and Publish a Children’s Book:
Getting There
The third step in learning how to write and publish a children’s book is to structure the plot. This involves creating a story arc with a beginning, middle, and end. It is also important to include interesting and varied language throughout the book. Remember to put your character in a situation where they can solve their own problem, which really matters to them. If the problem or solution don’t matter to your character, they won’t matter to the reader.
The fourth step is to revise the book. Most unpublished picture books are far too wordy, so it is important to use revision techniques like reading the work aloud to make sure everything you have written is necessary and contributes to the story’s flow. You’ll want to keep an eye on the length of your project, which should be close to 600 words for a picture book.
How to Write and Publish a Children’s Book:
Getting Into Print
The fifth step is optional, and that’s working with an illustrator. If you intend to self-publish, a children’s book illustrator is key. If you want to submit for traditional publication, don’t take this step yet, as it is an expensive investment and the publishing house will supply an illustrator. This is an important part of the process as illustrations can help bring the story to life. It is important to find an illustrator who understands the story and can create illustrations that capture the essence of the book. (You also want to make sure that you get an illustrator on board only once the text is finalized!)
The sixth step is to publish the book. This can be done through traditional publishing or self-publishing. Traditional publishing involves submitting the book to a publisher and waiting for them to accept or reject it. Self-publishing involves publishing the book yourself, either through a print-on-demand service or an online platform.
The seventh step in how to write and publish a children’s book is to market the book. This involves using a social media platform for writers, getting reviews, writing an enticing book blurb, and getting the book into libraries and schools. Additionally, it is important to build your email list and social media following in order to reach more potential readers.
How to Write and Publish a Children’s Book
By following these steps, writers can successfully learn how to write and publish a children's book. This is one of the most rewarding audiences to write for, and we can’t wait to see what you do as a creator in this space.
unlock your writing potential
As an agented writer and highly experienced editor, Amy Wilson can quickly identify strengths and opportunities for growth in your plot and prose, help you build a compelling submission package, and provide the encouragement you need to reach your writing goals. Take your writing to the next level with Amy’s professional eye.
