Publishing a book for children can be exciting and rewarding, however taking that step towards publication can be a giant leap which needs careful planning and preparation to ensure that your book reaches the right audience.
In the UK, the publishing landscape is rich and varied, with opportunities for both traditional publishing and self-publishing.
UK Children's Book Revenue and Access Factors
• In 2023, UK children's book revenue was 412 million British pounds.
• Growth in revenue from 2017 to 2021 was steady, but small gains between 2019 and 2021.
• Possible reasons for 2023 drop include cost-of-living, larger authors' publication cycles, and publication categories.
Children's Book Access
• Children and teens with free school meals are less likely to read.
• Boys are less likely to read than girls, regardless of family income.
• Only 18% of boys reported friends helping them find books, compared to 30% of girls.
• Boys of five to eight years old own the least books.
Encouraging Reading
• Early encouragement from parents, carers, and teachers can engage children with reading materials.
• Diverse and relatable book selections in key areas can help.
• Reduced screen time could encourage engagement with books and reading material.
This guide will walk you through the essential steps to prepare your children's book for publication.
First, we will get the mini answer before taking in a little more of the details.
To prepare your children's book for publishing, edit thoroughly, seek feedback from beta readers, and hire a professional editor. Format your manuscript to professional standards, If you are looking for a traditional publisher, research potential publishers and agents, following submission instructions carefully.
Understanding the Children's Book Market
So before you dive into the publishing process, it's crucial to understand the UK children's book market.
The UK has a robust publishing industry, with children's books represent a significant segment.
According to the Publishers Association, children's books accounted for 32% of total book sales in the UK in 2022.
This clearly shows a healthy demand but also shows how competitive children’s writing can be.
1. Research Current Trends
To position your book effectively, research current trends and some of the big bestselling titles in your genre - but beware coming late to the party - better to start a trend - rather than follow.
Visit bookstores, browse online retailers, and read industry publications like The Bookseller to identify what themes, styles, and formats are currently resonating with young readers.
2. Polishing Your Manuscript
Once you've completed your manuscript, the next step is to refine it to a professional standard.
Be Prepared For Several (and more) Rounds Of Editing:
Self-Editing (Not to be Advissed)
Start by reviewing your manuscript, if it's a novel, look at structure, pacing, and consistency.
Look for plot holes, and character development issues, and ensure your language is age-appropriate.
Reading your manuscript aloud can help identify awkward sentences and improve the flow of your narrative.
Professional Editing
Hiring a professional editor is highly recommended.
The Society of Authors, advises a professional editor can provide valuable feedback on both the content and technical aspects of your manuscript. I wouldn't advise publishing a book without working with a professional editor. or designer.
An editor can help you refine your story, improve clarity, and correct grammatical errors.
Beta Readers
Engage with beta readers – individuals who read your manuscript and provide feedback from a reader's perspective.
Choose a diverse group of readers, including teachers, parents, and children within your target age group.
Their insights can highlight areas that may need further revision.
Read more in A Writer's Guide On How to Handle Revisions And Feedback From Young Beta Readers On Your Children's Book Manuscript
3. Illustrations and Design
Children's books often rely heavily on illustrations to engage young readers. If your novel includes illustrations, consider the following steps:
Finding an Illustrator
If you're not an illustrator yourself, you'll need to collaborate with one.
The Association of Illustrators (AOI) offers a directory of professional illustrators. When selecting an illustrator, review portfolios to ensure their style matches the tone and audience that you would feel right for your book.
Illustrations Brief
Create a detailed brief for your illustrator, including descriptions of characters, settings, and any specific scenes you want depicted.
The Association Of Illustrators (AOI) advise that clear communication and a detailed contract outlining deadlines, payment terms, and rights are essential for a successful collaboration. The Society of Authors (SOA) can advise on publishing contracts Society of Authors,
Book Design
A professionally, well-designed book enhances legibility and appeal. Consider hiring a professional book designer who can format your text and illustrations into a cohesive layout.
The cover of the book is particularly important as it's the first impression potential readers will see. An eye-catching cover design can significantly impact the success of your book.
Read more in Do Children's Picture Book Publishers Provide Illustrators? : A Guide for Aspiring Children's Book Authors.
The Route To Publishing Your Book
4. Choosing Your Route To Publishing
You have two main publishing options: traditional publishing and self-publishing. Each route has its pros and cons.
Traditional Publishing
Traditional publishing involves submitting your manuscript to publishers or literary agents. If accepted, the publisher will handle editing, design, marketing, and distribution and of course pay an advance.
Submitting to Publishers
Research publishers who accept children's books and adhere to their submission guidelines.
Resources like The Writers' & Artists' Yearbook provide comprehensive listings of UK publishers and agents.
Prepare a query letter, a synopsis of your novel, and sample chapters as per agents or publisher's requirements.
Self-Publishing
Self-publishing offers more control over the publishing process but requires you to manage all aspects yourself, including editing, design, and marketing.
Platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), IngramSpark, and Lulu are popular choices for self-publishing in the UK.
Self-Publishing Checklist
ISBN: Obtain an International Standard Book Number (ISBN) for your book. In the UK, ISBNs can be purchased from Nielsen ISBN Agency.
Formatting: Ensure your manuscript is properly formatted for both print and e-book versions. Tools like Scrivener or professional formatting services can assist with this.
Proof Copies: Order proof copies to review the final product and make any necessary adjustments before the official launch.
Marketing Your Book
5. Marketing and Promotion
Regardless of your publishing route, marketing is crucial to your book's success.
Effective promotion helps your book stand out and reach your target audience.
Building an Online Presence
Create a website and social media profiles to promote your book and connect with readers.
The National Literacy Trust, advises that engaging with readers online can significantly boost your book's visibility and sales.
Book Launch and Events
Plan a book launch event to generate buzz and excitement. Partner with local bookstores, libraries, and schools to host readings and signings.
Participating in literary festivals and events like the Hay Festival can also increase your book's exposure.
Reviews and Media Coverage
Seek reviews from book bloggers, influencers, and publications. Positive reviews can enhance your book's credibility and attract more readers.
Consider sending press releases to local media to garner additional coverage.
6. Distribution
Getting your book into the hands of readers involves effective distribution.
If your book is being traditionally published, your publisher will handle this side of the business. For self-published authors, consider the following:
Online Retailers
List your book on major online retailers like Amazon, Waterstones, and WHSmith.
These platforms have a wide reach and offer convenient purchasing options for readers.
Bookshops and Libraries
Contact independent bookshops and library suppliers to stock your book.
Building relationships with local booksellers can help you gain shelf space and increase visibility.
Educational Market
Consider the educational market as a valuable distribution channel.
The BookTrust sates that schools and educational institutions frequently purchase children’s books for their libraries. Budgets will be pinched - but worth trying.
Offering discounts or teacher’s guides can make your book more appealing to your market.
How Do I Prepare My Children's Novel for Publishing?
- To End On…
Preparing your children's novel for publishing involves meticulous planning, from understanding the market and editing your manuscript to choosing the right publishing route and marketing your book effectively.
Publishing a children's book is not just about achieving personal success; it's about inspiring and entertaining the next generation.
With dedication and careful preparation, your book can make a lasting impact in the world of children's literature and help make a reader.
Publishing or Self-Publishing Guide: Essential Elements and Steps
If you're thinking about publishing or self-publishing, understanding the various stages and requirements is crucial. The format and type of your book will influence the necessary elements. This guide provides a general overview, specific types of books will have additional requirements.
The Parts of a Book: A Book Checklist
Front Matter
Half-Title Page (Optional but Recommended):
Title and subtitle of the book
Title type same as the cover fonts
Title Page:
Title and subtitle of the book
Author/editor names
Illustrator name (if applicable)
Publisher's name, logo, and location
Title type same as the cover fonts and styling
Optional design elements to tie into the cover design
Copyright Page:
Copyright date and holder (e.g., “© [Author Name], 2024”)
Copyright notice
Edition information
British Library CIP Data (applied for via British Library Cataloguing-in-Publication Programme)
Printing history, if applicable
Country of printing
Publisher’s name and contact information
Author name and book title
13-digit ISBN (for both print and e-book, clearly identified)
Credits for design, illustration, editing, and cover artwork
Assertion of Moral Rights
Applicable waivers or disclaimers
Dedication Page (Optional):
Separate recto page following the copyright page
Table of Contents (Optional):
Follows the dedication or copyright page
Concise, listing chapter titles and subtitles
Accurate page numbers
Typeset style matching the rest of the book
Content Quality
Grammar and Copyediting:
British English spelling and grammar, if writing in British English
Correct punctuation rules (single vs. double quotation marks, serial comma use, etc.)
Consistent grammatical style (e.g., The Oxford Guide to Style or The Times Style Guide)
Free of grammatical and typographical errors
Advance Reader Copies (ARCs) marked as “Uncorrected Proof” or “Advance Reader Copy”
Quality of Writing:
Well-written content, appropriate to the genre, age, and topic (if for children)
Inviting, direct, well-phrased, cliché-free
Consistent and accurate facts, names, dates, and timelines
Acknowledgments Page (Optional):
Credit sources, essential in nonfiction
Photo credits included consistently
Plagiarism-free content
About the Author:
Brief, informative biography
Author’s credentials for specialized topics
Optional URL and social media links
Production and Design
Interior Design:
Design with appropriate font, leading, kerning, margins, and trim size
Consistent running heads or footer
Proper treatment of special characters
Front Cover:
Legibility of text in print and digital formats
Colours which translate well to both print and digital formats
Spine:
Title, subtitle (optional), author name, publisher name/logo
Back Cover:
Good quality cover copy to act as a 'hook'
Price as with books in similar category
Clear readable BISAC subject heading
Publisher name/logo
Relevant, real, and properly credited endorsements/blurbs
Industry-standard EAN bar code with price and 13-digit ISBN embedded
Additional Considerations
Library of Congress and British Library:
Apply for PCNs and display LCCNs for all books in the US.
In the UK, register the book with the British Library.
Paper:
Ensure paper is of good enough quality to avoid text see-through which affects the reading experience.
Proofs:
Order proofs of the book before printing to check for errors, legibility, design, and colour.
SEO (Search Engine Optimisation):
Use keywords from the book title, subtitle, and description to ensure discoverability.
Include meta data descriptions and alt text for photographs and illustrations in digital versions as computers cannot read images.
Utilise author websites, blogs, and social media for backlinks to improve search rankings.
Common Publishing Abbreviations
ARC: Advance Reader Copy
BISAC: Book Industry Standards and Communications
CIP: Cataloguing-in-Publication
EAN: European Article Number
ISBN: International Standard Book Number
LCCN: Library of Congress Control Number
PCN: Preassigned Control Number
Use this checklist as the basis to create your own checklist and criteria.
By following these guidelines, you can start to ensure your published or self-published book meets professional publishing standards and will be well-received by your readers.
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