What kind of thing are publishers currently looking for?
Publishing companies are looking for easy readers for kids age 6 to 8, chapter books for ages 7 to 10, spooky stories for ages 8 and up, and nonfiction for all ages. Multicultural themes are very popular.
Is there some way to break into the business before writing a book?
Write for children's magazines like Highlights or Cricket. It's relatively easy to get published in a magazine and it looks good in your cover letter.
Should my story have a moral?
It can, but it's hard to have an obvious message while not being clich. Your primary goal is to entertain.
Does my book need to be illustrated?
If your book is for kids 7 or under it will need pictures. You need not be an artist; most publishers have their own illustrators.
Do I need an agent?
No. Agents for children's book writers are hard to find and, while helpful, not necessary. There are only a few publishing houses that require you to have one.
What can an agent do for me?
An agent can critique your work, find appropriate publishers, get your manuscript to the right person, and help negotiate your contract.
How much will an agent cost?
Usually, an agent will charge 15% of all of your earnings. Be suspicious of agents who require payments up front.
How can I find a good publisher?
Buy The Children's Writers and Illustrator's Market, contact the Children's Book Council, subscribe to Children's Book Insider, or go to a bookstore and see who published works similar to yours.
To whom should I address the cover letter?
Address it to the Submissions Editor, unless you've made a real contact with a particular editor. Don't pretend to know someone you don't, they're on to that little ploy.
How long should my cover letter be?
Half a page. No more. Be brief about the book; their evaluation will be based on your manuscript itself.
SoYouWanna know more? Check out our full-length article SoYouWanna write a children's book?
