For Writers

A FEW CHOICE WORDS FOR WRITERS OF CHILDREN’S BOOKS

REMEMBER C C B:  Writing for kids is a Calling, a Craft and a Business!!


      QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED:

• some writing ability
  
• have once been a child
  
• perseverance
  
• ego strength (expect some rejections)
• desire to read constantly in the genre you choose
• discipline
  

      TIPS FOR GETTING PUBLISHED:

1. Buy the Children’s Writer’s and Illustrator’s Market and study it.
2. Join the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (S.C.B.W.I.)
3. READ, READ, READ in your category.
4. Join a  children’s book writer’s group.
5. Research the market (publishers) carefully in market books and online.
6. Study the marketplace (bookstores, book clubs, book fairs, etc.).
7. Take a writing for kids class (not writing for adults.)
8. Create a professional manuscript (see SCBWI).
9. Write a sensational query or cover letter.
10. Send it with a flawless manuscript to the right publishing house.
11. Attend conferences and network.
    
    CONGRATULATIONS, YOU SOLD A BOOK!

    Now consider making some money.

    
        The average book sells about 5,000 copies, and the average author rarely makes much more than the advance.
             
              Therefore:

    Publicize.

    Make school and library visits.

    Present at conferences.

    Do some merchandising.

    Have a party to kick things off.

    But keep writing.

    And always study the truly great children’s authors.