How to Write a Children's Picture Book

Picture books are often a child's first introduction to literature. Parents and teachers use picture books for story telling and as a way to jumpstart a child's imagination. Writing a book which relies so heavily on pictures may seem easy, but writing of any kind takes skill and desire. Here are some steps to get you started.

Instructions

Plan

1. Go to the library or bookstore and read other picture books. Get a list of Caldecott winners and check displays to see what has consistently worked throughout the years and what is selling right now.

2. Choose a genre or category of picture book you wish to write. Some categories and subjects include fiction, non-fiction, colors, alphabet, learning, fairytales and poetry.

3. Have a general storyline in mind. Think of characters, plots and lessons and begin to draft possible outlines. Research any topics you need to learn more about.

4. Create an outline of your story. Include characters, plots, viewpoint, lessons learned or possible rhymes.

Write

1. Keep the story's length appropriate for the young age. Picture books average 32 pages for fiction and 48 pages for non-fiction. This equals approximately 1000-1500 words for fiction and 2000 words for non-fiction.

2. Write the beginning. With such a short book, the first few pages are incredibly important. Introduce the characters and give some insight to the plot of your book.

3. Continue with the body of the story. Make sure the language and complexity of the story fits the appropriate age, generally 3 to 10 years old. Keep the plot simple, focusing on one main character.

4. End the book with a climax or lesson learned. Keep the writing strong throughout the story and end with a clear and concise positive energy.

5. Create a list of possible publishers by going to the library or bookstore to see which companies publish your favorite books, or by using a database book such as Writer's Market.

Tips & Warnings

• Think of ideas for pictures and graphics to turn in with your manuscript. Most publishing houses will connect you with an illustrator but creative ideas could help sell your book.

• Try different tenses and viewpoint perspectives for your story to see which will work best. Most often the simplest voice is the best answer.

• Use characters the same age or slightly older than your target audience. Also consider using animals as main characters. Picture books allow complete creativity when choosing characters.

• Put a new spin on an old story, or adapt an idea for an adult audience into something suited for children. Come up with something original using childhood memories and other stories as a reference.