Children’s books can be fun to write, but they also offer many benefits. For example, perhaps you want to get into publishing or simply share your imagination with the world; children’s books provide an easy way to do these things while simultaneously rewarding their authors handsomely for their efforts. Kids like them and adults like them too (for different reasons of course). If you’re reading this, then maybe you too want to write a children’s book. It helps to know the basic steps of writing a children’s book, especially if it is your first time.
Step One, Get The Concept In Order
Children’s books are a special art form all their own. Before you start writing, think about what inspires or excites you most in a children’s book proofreaders that would make it worth reading over and over again by the very young people who will love it with all their hearts. Children’s books can be about many things, from traditional stories of magic and adventure to simple yet beautiful imagery that captures emotion at its core. Keep brainstorming ideas until you have a concept that excites you. Don’t just stop with what you want to create. As early as this stage, think about how your stories will be given shape as published books. If you are aiming to market your book someday to other English-speaking countries like Canada, you need to know several children’s book publishers in Canada as early as possible and take note of them. Once you build your network and connections, later on, it will be easier to decide which among your candidate publishers will become your partner in your international book release in the future.
Once your concept is in order, you should start by writing your story. Although this sounds obvious, it’s not always the case that people who are interested in writing for children actually have stories they’re excited enough about to turn into full-fledged books. If this is the case with you, then it’s probably time to do some brainstorming before you begin. Think of all the cool or impressive things in your life and try to put them together into an interesting tale that will resonate with young readers. This way, when you sit down to create your masterpiece, at least you’ll have an idea of what you’re trying to do.
Step Two, Get Ready for Revisions
Once you’ve thought of an idea, it is time to start writing the book. Your manuscript will be seen by many eyes before it is published. Make sure your writing is the best it can be! You might work with an editor who can give helpful feedback about what changes would make your story shine. Children’s literature must stand out from other books for its beautiful wording and exciting content, so focus long and hard on each sentence as you write it. It may feel tedious at first, but remember that the end product will be worth all of the revisions!
Step Three, Be Actively Involved in the Publishing Process
The publishing process can be long and difficult. Once your manuscript has been revised to the best of your ability, it will be sent to an editor, who can offer further suggestions. This is an important step for any book, let alone one meant for children! Remember that you are writing a story that must stand out from others on bookshelves everywhere. Editors are trained professionals whose jobs are to make sure every word serves its purpose in the work as a whole. As such, be prepared to set aside time for visiting your editor, since you will be meeting several times to discuss the revisions and updates regarding your book. Being available and active in the publishing process means you are committed to finishing your book, and your editor will appreciate it. Also, be prompt in revising your book and submitted the revisions to get the publishing back on schedule. It is already a lengthy process as it is, and you don’t want to add further delays.
Step Four – Be Patient
Be patient if this phase takes some time. The publishing process can be difficult and long in itself! All authors go through the same trials and tribulations to bring their stories to life for young readers across the world.
When you finally get the okay from all editors involved, it’s time for production! Illustrations are drawn or painted by different artists to support your story. At this stage, you may choose the images that are used or leave it up to professionals who do this work every day. Both options can be exciting in their own ways. Some writers may need to find an illustrator for their book if their schedules can no longer include drawing illustrations. Whether you don’t know how to draw yourself or not, finding someone who can do the illustrations for you can be beneficial. You are freed of the time spent drawing, and you focus on improving the quality of the story. There are plenty of freelancers out there who will work for cheap or even free in exchange for credit at the back of the book for their work. If this is too difficult, you can always pay someone else to illustrate your story. Just try to find one whose style matches your vision because readers tend not to like books that look too different from each other (unless they’re part of a series). As long as your illustrator doesn’t end up creating something that makes people laugh at your expense, you should be fine.
Step Five – Have Fun!
Writing a children’s book is hard work, but rewarding too! Celebrate after you’ve finished your manuscript, and remember how proud you are for sticking with it through every step of the process. Remember to have fun while writing your book, because what inspires you will make all the difference in creating a wonderful piece of literature for children everywhere.
Aside from the steps above, it is also important to leave your reader satisfied and eager for more after reading the last page. Avoid any loose ends or unresolved problems, as this may confuse young readers who expect every puzzle piece to fit together in the end! Also, remember that some stories will need a sequel–that’s okay, but only if it makes sense within the realm of your story. A satisfying ending can be accomplished through a number of different ways–good luck and happy writing! Don’t let yourself get discouraged when you aren’t perfect on the first try! Aim for small milestones so that each step builds up to the next. That’s what real writers do!
