Are you a writer who would like to write and publish a children’s book? If you are, you should know that you have A LOT of work ahead of you. I’ve had clients who believed that children’s books are just sooo easy to write. And you know what? THEY’RE RIGHT! However, they are not necessarily the easiest to get published.
The first step in getting a children’s book published is to write a great, not good, but GREAT children’s book. You will want to write a children’s book that kids can’t wait to read or a book that kids don’t want to put down. And if you decide to create a picture book, it must be interesting and captivating.
One of the best ways to ensure that you write a good children’s book is by talking to kids in the age group that you intend to write for. Parents, speak to your kids. Ask them what they would like they to see in a book. If you don’t have any kids, consider asking your younger relatives or the children of your friends. You’ll find their input to be extremely valuable.
As a parent or guardian, you have the advantage because there is a good chance that you have read stories to your children before. Think about what books they found most interesting. Which ones did they ask you to read to them the most? Examine the themes and layouts of these books and consider making yours similar in nature.
After you have written a children’s book, your first thought may be to start approaching publishers right away. But hold your horses. First, it is important to proofread and edit your book. Unfortunately, many new authors assume that this is a step that they do not have to take because the book is “so short and simple.” The truth is that you should actually proofread and edit a children’s book more. Since there are fewer words, publishers expect every word to be written perfectly. If you must, hire the services of a professional editor. I’m always available to help, wink wink.
Don’t underestimate the power of an interactive critique group. When becoming a part of a writer’s critique group, you will share your book with other group members, and they will do the same. Getting feedback from people outside of your circle is just as important as the opinions of those within your circle.
Writer’s critique groups are easy to find and have a number of benefits. With information so easily accessible, it is easy to find online critique groups or information on local groups. Depending on what you find, you may need to pay a small fee to join, but there are some great free ones around, too.
Using the services of a professional editor, joining a writer’s group, and letting your friends or family read your book are all important things to take into consideration. Of course, this does not mean that you have to completely rewrite your book every time you hear something different, but you should be open to taking all suggestions into consideration.
Remember, your friends, editors, and family members all want to see you succeed, not fail. If you are unsure about which steps to take, I A.M. Editing, Ink is here to help you navigate through the process.
Happy Writing!!!
Adrienne Michelle Horn is the owner of I A.M. Editing, Ink. Although she has a full-time professional career in healthcare, she is also a South Florida-based editor, poet, author, entrepreneur, and mother of her beautiful daughter, Paris.
For more information about Adrienne and her company, follow I A.M. Editing, Ink on social media or visit: https://linktr.ee/iamediting