People who work with children aren't usually considered to be less skilful than those who do the same work with adults, so why is it the opposite so often assumed to be true of the adults who create books for children?
"If I had a serious brain injury I might well write a children's book, but otherwise the idea of being conscious of who you're directing the story to is anathema to me, because, in my view, fiction is freedom and any restraints on that are intolerable."
Martin Amis 2011
How To go from an Idea into Print
At worst, it is thought we must be childish or that it is easier to create books for children than it is for adults. We don’t, I can reveal, have meetings surrounded by teddy bears, and I certainly feel that in many ways writing for children presents greater opportunities for creativity because of the very limitations of text and page lengths. Here I'll take a look at what it takes to get an idea into print and be published.
Know who you are writing your children's picture book for?
We constantly ask: ‘Who is this book for? Is it age appropriate? Does the cover reflect what’s inside?’ Research what appeals to children of different ages and look at the books which have been able to capture different generations of children. Study how these books have been adapted and changed over the years for new readers.
You should have a clear idea of your target audience. Never patronise your reader as children can be harsh critics. Also, don’t take your family’s opinion for gospel: they will adore anything you create, so do be realistic - the family drama of the hamster stuck down the back of a sofa in Bognor may not have that global appeal...but then again it just might...the hamster could always be popping-up and unseen by it's progresively frantic owner who tear the house apart.
How do you come up with ideas for children's picture books?
Originality and ideas are paramount for children's picture books. The more ideas you have, the more you can discard ideas, as it’s not too good to become too attached to just one idea. A flash of inspiration is not an illustrated book. On the other hand, a simple concept in the hands of a genius author or brilliant illustrator could be the next global bestseller.
Should you think in pictures for a children's picture book?
Yes...as well as in words - this is a picture book after all.
How should you submit your children's book to a publisher?
In submitting your children's picture book or ideas, follow the publisher or agent’s submission guidelines to be considered to be published extremely carefully, you don't want to miss out on being published because you haven't followed the instructions for picture book submission.
Example of Submission Guidelines (Do not send submissions to me!) This is an example!
(Draft)
Submission Guidelines as Example:
Author/Illustrators We are particularly interested in creators who both write and illustrate their own stories.
Comics/Graphic Novels Comics and graphic novels for ages 4-6, 6-9, 9-12, 13+, and Young Adult. No religious stories. No memoirs, No explicit adult content, no dull books please.
Comics/Graphic Manuscripts Submit at least seven draft spreads with at least three in the final art style. Include a short synopsis of the entire story.
Illustration Only Submissions Illustrators without a text can submit a portfolio PDF or a link to their work online. Many non-fiction books feature illustrators who do not work on the text.
Literary Texts We do not publish literary prose or novels. Our focus is on illustrated picture books for children and the very young only.
Non-fiction Books While most non-fiction titles are internally commissioned, we welcome concepts from experts. Illustrators with an interest in children’s non-fiction are encouraged to send a link to their online work.
Picture Books We seek picture books for children aged 3-5 years. Preferred formats are 32-page books with 12 spreads or 40-page books with 16 spreads. Submissions not following these formats may not be suitable.
Picture Book Manuscripts Authors and illustrators should submit a PDF manuscript showing each spread with text and image together. Include a draft sketch of the entire book with at least three finished spreads to demonstrate the final art style.
How can you learn about Children's Picture Books?
Take advice on the publishing business from many sources. Attend literary festivals, bookfairs, book shops, especially second hand bookshops. Be wary of one day courses and portfolio surgeries promising industry secrets, as they are often expensive and of limited use. You need realistic expectations about what to expect from a publisher, but of course rules can always be broken and contracts negotiated.
How do you sell an idea?
To sell an children's book idea to be published it is important to write a synopsis which is clear and concise.
Do not oversell: It's good to be ambitious, but writing about the multimedia and marketing potential involving a global TV/Movie series when it is not relevant or an idea is half formed is a waste of time for everyone.
Specs (Specifications)
Picture books for print have 16, 24, 32, 40, or 48 (sometimes more) pages. 32 pages is the length that is probably average - that gives a wide enough spine in a paperback to display only spine in a bookshop.
Is rhyming text a good idea?
Rhyming text is good for countries where English is the language. Rhyming text can decrease the chances of a book being accepted for foreign translations. Picture books are usually printed in full-colour. To make the production costs for full-colour printing work, a publisher depends on selling rights in its books globally. This makes selling rhyming or rhythmic text difficult, although not impossible. Certainly children enjoy rhyming texts, but the story needs to have an extremely strong story to be worth translating, and have a clear and consistent rhyming pattern in English. The text should not rely on the use of language. It is best to read the rhyming text aloud to see if the speech pattern works and try it out in different accents - this is true in the case of all text, not only rhyming text. It has been my experience that foreign publishers have been indifferent to books with rhyming text. Similarly alphabet books are problematic beyond English speaking countries because of the different symbols and numbers of letters in individual countries’ alphabets.
Should you be flexible in the choices you make about working with an illustrator or author?
If you’re a writer working with an illustrator, or vice versa, it’s probably best to not be too attached to your working partner as often a publisher might wish to use only half of the existing work and pair either the writer or illustrator up with someone else to ensure that the venture is more of a commercial success.
Remember...
Publishers pay authors and artists, NOT the other way round. Be wary if you are asked for contributions towards the funding of the book being published.
Remember a publisher has a printing schedule and a publicity plan in place before printing begins, so deadlines need to be treated with the utmost respect.
Successful Ideas for Children's Picture Books (Aged 0-5)
Creating children's picture books for the 0-5 age group involves understanding children's unique developmental stages, interests, and the universal themes that resonate with them. Successful picture books often incorporate a blend of engaging storytelling, original age appropriate illustrations, and themes which encourage emotional and cognitive growth.
Themes, and Considerations
Here is an exploration of the common successful ideas, themes, and considerations for creating compelling picture books for young children, along with an examination of common clichés to avoid. Research and find favourites.
Universal themes in children's picture books
Friendships and relationships
Stories about making friends, resolving conflicts, and understanding others are timeless. Picture books which explore these themes help children develop social skills and empathy.
Keywords: empathy in picture books, friendship in children's books, and children's books about relationships.
Example: Elephant and Piggie series by Mo Willems.
Adventure and Exploration
Children are naturally curious, and stories that take them on journeys, whether through their own backyard or to fantastical lands, capture their imagination.
Keywords: adventure books for toddlers, exploration themes in children's books, and imaginative playbooks
Example: Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak.
3. Animals and Nature
Animals are a perennial favourite among young children. Stories featuring animals, whether anthropomorphised or in their natural habitats, are highly engaging.
Keywords: children's animal stories, nature-themed picture books, and children's books about wildlife.
Example: The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle.
4. Family and Home
Themes revolving around family dynamics, routines, and the comfort of home resonate deeply with young children.
Keywords: family-themed children's books, home life in picture books, and books about family for toddlers.
Example: Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney.
5. Emotions and self-understanding
Books that help children identify and manage their emotions are essential for emotional development.
Keywords: emotional development in children's books, books about feelings for children, and self-awareness in picture books.
Example: The Colour Monster by Anna Llenas.
6. Imagination and creativity
Encouraging creativity through imaginative play and storytelling helps develop cognitive skills.
Keywords: imaginative playbooks, creative thinking in children's books, and fantasy picture books.
Example: Not a Box by Antoinette Portis.
Emphasising Diversity
1. Cultural Representation
Books should reflect a variety of cultures, traditions, and family structures to foster inclusivity and understanding from a young age.
Keywords: multicultural picture books, diversity in children's books, and culturally diverse children's books, children’s books on city life.
Example: Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña.
2. Language and Identity
Incorporating different languages and exploring diverse identities can help children appreciate the richness of the world. Bilingual books and stories which celebrate uniqueness are valuable.
Keywords: bilingual picture books, books about identity for kids, and language diversity in children's books, Children's Books on Self-Esteem & Self-Respect.
Example: Alma and How She Got Her Name by Juana Martinez-Neal.
3. Disabilities and different abilities
Representing children with disabilities and different abilities in a positive light promotes inclusivity and empathy.
Keywords: disabilities for kids, inclusive children's books, and diverse abilities in picture books.
Example: We're All Wonders by R.J. Palacio.
Creative Approaches
4. Interactive Elements
Lift-the-flap, touch-and-feel, and sound books engage children’s senses and make reading a multi-sensory experience.
Keywords: interactive children's books, sensory books for toddlers, lift-the-flap books for kids.
Example: Dear Zoo by Rod Campbell.
5. Repetitive and predictable text
Young children thrive on repetition and predictability, which helps with language acquisition and memory.
Keywords: repetitive text in children's books, predictable storylines for toddlers, and early reading books, colour recognition.
Example: Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle.
6. Rhyme and Rhythm
Books with rhyming text and rhythmic patterns are not only fun to read but also aid in phonemic awareness.
Keywords: rhyming picture books, rhythmic children's books, phonemic awareness books, Children's Early Learning Books on Sounds.
Example: The Koala Who Could by Rachel Bright illustrated by Jim Field.
8. Illustrations and looking at Myths and folklore for inspiration
Vivid, colourful, and expressive illustrations are crucial in capturing the attention of young readers. The artwork should complement and enhance the story. Luna and the Moon Rabbit by Camille Whitcher, was an unpublished picture book which won the inaugural Stratford-Salariya Picture Book Prize. The book was Inspired by Camille's Japanese grandmother's childhood stories along with Asian folklore. Tthe book follows a young girl and a giant rabbit on a night-time adventure through dreamy landscapes.
Keywords: include illustrated children's books, colourful picture books, and engaging artwork for kids' books, Literature & Fiction for Children (Books).
Example: The Runaway Bunny by Margaret Wise Brown, illustrated by Clement Hurd.
Common Clichés to Avoid
1. Overly Didactic Stories
Books which are too focused on teaching a moral lesson can feel preachy and fail to engage children. Stories should naturally integrate lessons without overshadowing the narrative.
Keywords to avoid include preachy children's books, engaging educational books for kids, and natural storytelling in children's books.
2. Stereotypical Characters
Avoid one-dimensional characters which rely on outdated stereotypes, whether in terms of gender, race, or family roles. Characters should be well-rounded and relatable.
Localised monsters or characters from nursery rhymes or fairy stories may not travel well in selling rights. Ask yourself "Will the Loch Ness Monster be relevant outside Scotland?" Perhaps the 'Yeti' or 'Big Foot' are part of everyday culture - so could be used, but best to double-check.
Keywords: steer clear of stereotypes in children's books, foster diverse character development in children's books, and showcase modern characters in children's books.
3. Predictable Plots
While some predictability is beneficial, stories should also offer surprises and twists to keep children engaged and curious.
Keyword: Unique plots in children's books, engaging storylines for kids, and surprising elements in picture books.
4. Oversimplification
Simplifying language and concepts is important, but overly simplistic plots that lack substance or weight can bore young readers. Balance is key.
Keywords: substance in children's books, balanced storytelling for kids, engaging yet simple kids' books.
Creating successful children's picture books
Creating successful children's picture books involves a careful blend of universal themes, engaging storytelling, and brilliant original illustrations in style and execution. Emphasising diversity and inclusivity ensures that all children see themselves reflected in the stories they read, fostering empathy and broadening children’s understanding of the world. While it's important to be mindful of common clichés, innovative and interactive approaches can make reading a delightful and enriching experience for young children.
Books which Captivate, Educate and Entertain
By focussing on these elements and incorporating effective writing strategies, authors and illustrators can create picture books that captivate, educate, and inspire the youngest of readers while ensuring that their work reaches a wide and appreciative audience.
What are the changes in illustration design and publishing for children?
I’m not really able to see into the future unfortunately but perhaps think about:
Cultural diversity and the backgrounds in people and places has become increasingly important over the past ten years. The background and heritage of the author, artist or book creator needs to be acknowledged.
Interactive Elements:
Integrating interactive design features has always been important: flaps, textures, pop-ups engage young readers and makes the reading experience more immersive.
Hand-Drawn and painted Illustrations:
A move towards hand-drawn and whimsical illustrations, gives a personal and unique piece of work - as AI can be voice instructed to create art - just about everyone might be trying, so time to get the paintbox out.
Computer generated artwork does have a problem in that the software can produce identikit illustrations.
Bold Colours and Contrasts:
Vibrant and bold colour palettes with high contrasts create striking and memorable artwork - again looking hand drawn. Collage reproduces well and can look fresh and new.
More and more Creative Typography!
Creative use of typography, including unusual fonts and page layout designed to enhance the visual story and information to capture the attention of young readers.
It's important for 'headers' and perhaps 'speach bubbles' to use fonts which look 'non-school book'.
Environment:
A trend towards current global concerns incorporating themes related to the environment, sustainability, and nature.
Digital Integration:
Experimentation with augmented reality (AR) or other digital elements to enhance the storytelling experience, especially in interactive or educational books.
Design becomes minimalist:
Embracing simplicity and minimalism in design, illustration and page layout, allowing for a clean and easily read logical visual narrative. Make sure text is of a size which can be read easily, watch out for 'see-through' on pages when paper is very thin as this makes it difficult for readers especially those with reading problems to focus.
Personalised Storytelling and Information:
Customisable elements or personalisation in books, allowing children to see themselves in the story, whether through personalised characters or choices in the narrative.
Mixing Media:
Combining different artistic media, collaging traditional illustration with photography/digital to create visually rich and textured designs.
Printing and production nearer to home
The environmental impact of printing and shipping from the other side of the world needs to be analysed. Special finishes on books: foiling, gloss lamination, plastic coatings all make an impact.
The best thing though is to just get on with it and not over analyse.
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