How to Publish Christian Children's Book

Children can read about the Christian faith with books geared for them.

Writing books for children is one way to teach them about the Christian faith. A writer who is considering writing a children's book or has already written one may be looking for ways to get it published. The Christian children's book genre is a competitive market, but publishing is possible with the right query letter and a well-written book based on a solid premise.

Instructions

1. Become familiar with the Christian children's book market. Visit a local library and Christian bookstores to see what books are popular. Children often relate to books that have characters that can put bible stories into perspective using humor. Other books are perfect for parents to read with their children and discuss after. Your book should offer a new twist or fresh characters that will engage children.

2. Find a publisher that specializes in children's or Christian books. The market is competitive, so a solid query letter introducing the book and explaining how it is different and will sell must be sent to publishers. Research titles released by the specific publisher to decide whether your book will be a good fit.

3. Network with publishers and literary agents at publishing and faith-based events. The right connections can be a key to achieving publishing goals. Many publishers will not even read a query letter or consider a manuscript unless you have a literary agent to represent you. This is an extra cost, but an agent will help circulate a manuscript and possibly get it published.

4. Follow the submission guidelines for each specific publisher. Check the company website, call a representative or read the most current edition of "Writer's Market" to determine what each publisher is looking for. For example, do not send unsolicited manuscripts to those who do not accept them. Some publishers will want to see the entire book; others might require just a letter. Some may want to see illustrations as well.

5. Look into self-publishing. This might not yield much in royalties, but will be an opportunity to get the story out there. Once it is published, members of your community, online market sites or even religious events are potential buyers.

References

• New Book Publishing: Publishing Christian Children's Books
• Underdown; Getting Started: The Basics of Children's Writing and Illustrating; Harold Underdown
• Christian Book Publishing Info: Are You an Unpublished Chrsitian Author?
• Write 4 Kids: Writing Children's Books: How Do I Get Started?