Author Tips

10 Things to Know Before Writing a Children’s Picture Book

Thinking about writing a children’s picture book? It’s actually much harder than it seems. Here are 10 tips worth knowing before you begin:

1. Do your research — know the genre!

Spend time reading picture books. Study and evaluate what you like (and don’t like) about them — even down to size, binding, font and industry-standard formatting. Publishing trends change over time, so reading recently published books can help you understand current styles and themes.

2. Explore your publishing options

Each pathway has its pros and cons. Traditional publishing is notoriously restricted, with limited submission opportunities and strict criteria. Indie publishing and e-publishing have broadened (and diluted) the market significantly, but be wary of vanity or hybrid publishing companies making big promises. If you are offered a contract, make sure you fully understand what you’re getting into and what the return on your creative investment may be.

3. Write a business plan

Your book is a product that you will be selling. Marketing is largely author-driven, so you need to be prepared to put yourself out there. Books that sell consistently do so because the author invests time and money into positioning, targeted advertising and audience engagement. Determine the level of commitment, money and time you realistically have available to bring your idea to life. Find a business plan template and document your vision. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from people who’ve done one before.

4. Be realistic

While you may dream of being the next Lynley Dodd, Margaret Mahy or Joy Cowley, the competition is fierce. Google “How many books can an author expect to sell?” for some hard truths. Writing a book will typically not make you rich, so don’t give up the day job just yet.

5. Know your audience

A story for toddlers will look very different from one aimed at older children. Think carefully about the age group you are writing for and their interests. Consider both what language they will understand and the vocabulary and sentence structures they naturally use.

You are not Dr Seuss — your text does not have to rhyme! If it does rhyme, make sure it enhances rather than distracts from the storyline. The best picture books usually focus on one clear idea, emotion or adventure. You don’t need a complicated plot to create something memorable.

6. Quality illustrations matter

In picture books, the artwork carries just as much meaning as the words. Leave space for illustrations to add humour, detail and emotion. Be aware of your artistic limits and invest in a professional illustrator (not AI). Trust them to do their job and give them the creative freedom to elevate your project. Be clear about any specifics you’d like included, but if your text is strong enough, a great illustrator should be able to bring your words to life beautifully.

7. Listen to other people’s opinions

Picture books are designed to be heard as well as read. Read your book aloud to many audiences. Feedback is important — ideally from people in the age group the book is aimed at. You could also pay for a manuscript assessment.

Don’t rely solely on family and friends’ opinions because, honestly, they probably won’t want to hurt your feelings. Listen carefully to feedback and suggestions. Accept them graciously, let them settle, and consider the reasons behind the comments. Take on board what is useful while staying true to the vision in your business plan.

8. Edit more than you write

Picture books are short, but every word matters. Many successful stories go through countless revisions. Find a real human editor, author or peer who can suggest ways to strengthen your book. Eventually, though, there comes a point where you have to decide it’s the best it can be — even if part of you still thinks it could be improved.

9. Trust and enjoy the process

If you’re doing it properly, you’ll experience a whole gamut of emotions — often more negative than positive! Self-doubt can actually be useful because it teaches you to back yourself. Holding a physical copy of your book for the first time will probably make you cry. If it doesn’t, you may not have emptied your cup enough bringing it into the world.

10. Write the story only you can write

The most memorable books often come from genuine experiences, observations and passions. Your unique voice and perspective are what make a story stand out. There is nothing more satisfying than discovering your book is a child’s favourite — and that their parent now knows it by heart.