Writing

How to Write a Children's Book and Get It Published

Spencer LanoueSpencer Lanoue
Writing

Writing a children's book might seem like a whimsical adventure, filled with fairy tales and colorful illustrations. But, for many, it's a serious endeavor that requires planning, creativity, and a dash of persistence. If you're dreaming of creating a story that will captivate young minds, this guide will walk you through the steps to write and publish a children's book. We'll cover everything from crafting an engaging story to navigating the world of publishing. Let's get started on this exciting journey!

Finding Your Story Idea

Every great children's book starts with a compelling idea. But how do you come up with one? It might seem challenging, but inspiration can be found in everyday life. Think about the stories that fascinated you as a child. What were the themes? Perhaps there's a personal experience or an amusing anecdote that could serve as the foundation for your book.

Consider these approaches to spark your creativity:

  • Observe the World Around You: Kids see magic in the mundane. Whether it's a trip to the grocery store or a walk in the park, everyday experiences can inspire delightful tales.
  • Draw from Personal Experience: Reflect on your own childhood memories. Was there a special place or event that left a lasting impression?
  • Listen to Children: Kids have a unique perspective. Listen to their stories and questions. They might just give you the next big idea.

Remember, your story should not only entertain but also resonate with young readers. Once you have a rough idea, it's time to develop it into a full-fledged story.

Crafting a Captivating Plot

Plot is the backbone of your story. It guides the reader from beginning to end and keeps them engaged. For children's books, a simple and clear plot works best. But that doesn't mean it can't be exciting! Here's how to structure your plot:

  • Begin with a Hook: Start your story with an intriguing event or problem to grab the reader's attention right away.
  • Build Up to the Climax: Create a series of events that lead to the story's most exciting part.
  • Resolving the Conflict: Ensure that the story's central problem is resolved in a satisfying way.
  • End with a Twist or a Lesson: Leave the reader with something to think about, whether it's a surprising twist or a moral lesson.

Consider this example of a plot outline:

1. Hook: A curious squirrel finds a shiny key in the forest.
2. Rising Action: The squirrel encounters several animals who claim the key can unlock something magical.
3. Climax: The squirrel discovers the key fits a mysterious, locked box.
4. Resolution: Inside the box, he finds a map leading to a secret garden.
5. Conclusion: The squirrel shares the secret garden with his friends, highlighting the joy of sharing.

With a solid plot in place, you're ready to develop your characters.

Developing Memorable Characters

Characters are the heart of your story. They should be relatable and engaging for young readers. Here's how to create characters that stand out:

  • Give Them Distinctive Traits: Unique characteristics or quirks make characters memorable. Maybe your protagonist has an unusual hobby or a funny way of speaking.
  • Create Emotional Depth: Even in children's books, characters should have emotions and motivations that drive their actions.
  • Make Them Relatable: Think about the everyday challenges kids face and how your characters can reflect those experiences.

For instance, consider a character like "Benny the Brave Bee," who is afraid of flying high but dreams of exploring the world. His fear and determination make him relatable and inspiring.

Once your characters are fleshed out, it's time to set them in a vivid world.

Creating a Vivid Setting

The setting of your story should be vibrant and immersive, allowing young readers to dive into a different world. Here’s how to bring your setting to life:

  • Use Descriptive Language: Paint a picture with words. Describe colors, sounds, and textures to make the setting tangible.
  • Incorporate Sensory Details: Engage the reader's senses. What does the setting smell like? What sounds can be heard?
  • Reflect the Mood: The setting should enhance the story's mood. A dark, stormy night can add tension, while a sunny day can evoke happiness.

Consider this vivid setting description:

The forest was alive with the rustling of leaves and the chirping of distant crickets. The moon cast a silvery glow on the path, illuminating the way for Benny the Brave Bee as he ventured into the unknown.

With your setting in place, you're ready to focus on the language and style of your book.

Choosing the Right Language and Style

Children's books require a careful balance of simplicity and richness. Your language should be accessible yet engaging. Here are some tips:

  • Keep Sentences Short and Simple: Young readers have a limited attention span. Short sentences help maintain their focus.
  • Use Repetition Wisely: Repetition can reinforce important points and make the story more memorable.
  • Play with Rhythm and Rhyme: Rhyming and rhythmic language can make the story more enjoyable and easier to read aloud.

Let’s look at an example of rhythmic language:

Benny the Bee buzzed by the tree,
With a wish to see what the world could be.

Now that you have the narrative elements in place, let's talk about illustrations.

Partnering with an Illustrator

Most children's books are as much about the visuals as they are about the text. If you're not an artist, you'll need to collaborate with an illustrator. Here's how to find the right partner:

  • Review Portfolios: Look at various illustrators' portfolios to find a style that matches your vision.
  • Communicate Clearly: Share your story and your vision for the illustrations. A picture book needs a harmonious blend of text and visuals.
  • Discuss Terms: Agree on terms such as payment, timelines, and rights before starting the project.

An illustrator can bring your story to life, adding a layer of magic that words alone can't achieve. Once you have your illustrations, it's time to polish your manuscript.

Editing Your Manuscript

Editing is a crucial step in the writing process. It ensures your story is clear, engaging, and free of errors. Here's a step-by-step approach:

  • Self-Edit First: Read your manuscript aloud to catch awkward phrasing or typos.
  • Seek Feedback: Share your manuscript with trusted friends or fellow writers for constructive criticism.
  • Hire a Professional Editor: An experienced editor can provide valuable insights and improve your manuscript significantly.

Editing can be time-consuming, but it's worth the effort to make your story shine. After editing, it's time to get your book published.

Understanding the Publishing Process

The journey to publication can take different paths. You can pursue traditional publishing, self-publishing, or explore hybrid models. Here's a breakdown:

  • Traditional Publishing: This involves submitting your manuscript to publishers or literary agents. If accepted, they handle the production and distribution.
  • Self-Publishing: You take control of the entire process, from editing to distribution. Platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing make this option accessible.
  • Hybrid Publishing: A blend of traditional and self-publishing, where you pay for services and retain some control over the process.

Each path has its pros and cons. Consider your goals, budget, and how much control you want over the final product. Now, let's focus on how to craft a compelling pitch.

Crafting a Compelling Pitch

If you're aiming for traditional publishing, you'll need to craft a pitch that captures the essence of your book and grabs the attention of agents or publishers. Here's how:

  • Start with a Hook: Begin your pitch with a compelling sentence that introduces your book's unique angle or theme.
  • Provide a Brief Synopsis: Summarize the plot, characters, and setting in a concise paragraph.
  • Highlight Your Credentials: Mention any relevant writing experience or awards.
  • Include a Call to Action: Encourage the agent or publisher to request the full manuscript.

Here's an example of a strong pitch:

Dear [Agent/Publisher],

I'm excited to present "Benny the Brave Bee," a 500-word picture book for ages 4-7. In this heartwarming story, Benny overcomes his fear of flying high to discover the wonders of the world and the joy of sharing with friends. With vibrant illustrations and rhythmic language, "Benny the Brave Bee" will resonate with young readers and their caregivers.

I am a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators and have had my short stories featured in several children's magazines. 

Thank you for considering my manuscript. I look forward to the opportunity to share Benny's journey with you.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Once your pitch is ready, you're set to submit your manuscript and wait for those acceptance letters.

Promoting Your Children's Book

Getting your book published is just the beginning. To reach your audience, you'll need to engage in some promotion. Here are some strategies:

  • Use Social Media: Platforms like Instagram and Twitter are great for connecting with readers and sharing updates about your book.
  • Host Readings: Arrange book readings at local libraries or schools to introduce your book to the community.
  • Collaborate with Bloggers: Reach out to book bloggers for reviews. Positive reviews can significantly boost your book's visibility.
  • Leverage Spell: With Spell, you can quickly generate promotional content like press releases or social media posts, saving you time and effort.

Promotion requires creativity and persistence, but it’s essential for your book's success in the market.

Final Thoughts

Writing and publishing a children's book is a rewarding journey that combines creativity, planning, and perseverance. From finding your unique story idea to crafting a compelling pitch, each step brings you closer to sharing your story with the world. And remember, tools like Spell can make the writing and promotional process smoother, helping you focus more on your creativity. Happy writing!

Spencer Lanoue

Spencer Lanoue

Spencer has been working in product and growth for the last 10 years. He's currently Head of Growth at Sugardoh. Before that he worked at Bump Boxes, Buffer, UserTesting, and a few other early-stage startups.