How to Publish Children's Books

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By netlexis
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Children's books need writers and illustrators

If you ever wondered how to break into children's book publishing, you are not alone. Millions of children's books are published each year. However, that means the competition is stiff, too. For every book that reaches the printing press, hundreds more sit in publishers and agents' slush piles. Although the statistics seem to be against the aspiring writer or illustrator, success stories are out there. Every year trade publications announce first-time authors and artists whose work is published.

If you are passionate about breaking into children's book publishing, forget the grim warnings and concentrate on the work. And put the steps below to good use.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Imagination
Blood, sweat & tears

Step 1

Know your genre: No two children are alike or do they read alike, but children's publishers do classify by age group. Although, there are always variations and crossovers, children's book categories generally fall into the following age groups and word count.

• Picture books: Ages 4-8, under 1,000 words (art really counts here)
• Easy readers: Ages 6-8, 200-1,500 words (think vocabulary lists)
• Early chapter books: Ages 6-9 (short chapters usually 1-2 pages long)
• Chapter books: Ages 7-10. 45-60 pages (more detail to stories)
• Middle grade: Ages 8-12. 100-150 pages
• Young adult: Ages 12 and up. 130-200 pages (& sometimes longer)
Step 2

Now, read all the books you can in the category you expect to work in. Read the classics, read the award winners, read what's on the bestseller lists, read everything you can get your hands on. Especially read within the genre you hope to work in. Think of this reading as market research into children's books. More importantly, think of this reading as training at the feet of the masters. You can learn a lot about plot, characterization and voice just by reading.
Step 3

Join a group like the Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators. This national organization and its regional chapters provide valuable information for aspiring and seasoned children's writers and illustrators. Take advantage of the monthly local meetings and if possible, try to attend one of the national conferences.
Step 4

Find a critique group to join. Working with other serious writers and artists not only provides you with feedback on your work, but analyzing other's work helps you grow and learn, too. A good critique group can help hone your skills and can be especially helpful when your work is ready to move forward.
Step 5

Keep up with the publishing business and read market reports, websites, blogs, magazines and newsletters. These sources are packed with information on the latest books sales, what publishers are looking for, where to find agents and inspiring stories of writers and illustrators who have made their first children's book sale.
Step 6

Find an agent. Many writers turn to a literary agent to help find publishers. Many of the top children's publishing companies do not accept submissions from anyone other than an agent. Sometimes finding an agent to represent you is as hard as finding a publisher. Don't be daunted. It may be hard work, but it will be worth it.
Step 7

Query a publisher. Not all publishers are closed to submissions. Many are actively looking for books. As with agents, it may be hard to find and editor who loves your work and wants to buy it, but don't give up if you really believe in it.
Step 8

Keep creating. Like the old saying about how to make it to Carnegie Hall (practice, practice, practice), the way you publish children's books is to create, create, create.