Writing a picture book can sometimes be more difficult than writing longer work. Being able to capture the reader with limited words can be tedious. The reader should feel there is more to the story and anxiously awaits the turn of the page. A dusty book is not one that screams to be read over and over.
Write a Picture Book that Sells
At the beginning of the story, think of the child who will be reading it but, don't stop there. A lot of children's books are purchased as gifts. The buyer, normally an adult, will need to be convinced this is the book to buy. Stores are lined with hundreds of books competing to be bought. The title needs to be something that will persuade the buyer to pick it up, thumb through the pages, and purchase the book. With this in mind, make the title as tightly focused and eye catching as possible.
The first page of a picture book is the page that will hook the reader into reading the pages that follow. Children need to believe the story as it unfolds. Getting lost with each turn of the page will make the story become one that is read over and over again. When coming to the end of a picture book most children love to be surprised. Sometimes authors will allow the last page to mirror the first page bringing the story full circle.
Illustrators Paint Pictures, Authors Don't Need Too
Most new writers will try to describe what is going on in the story instead of letting the illustrator paint the picture the story is telling. With limited words in a picture book use each word to its full effect. Leave the pictures to the illustrator.
What age will the child be? Writing for a child being read to by an adult is different than writing for a child learning to read independently. Choose words carefully and avoid talking down to the reader. Children want to read words that will make them feel older not younger.
Once the story is written reread it again and again. Read it quietly and out loud to yourself several times. Do the words flow off the tongue? Read it slowly taking in each and every word. Is there a stronger word that could be used instead? With a limited amount of words in a picture book don't fill up the pages with unneeded words like it, is, was, had, were. Make every word count.
Picture Book Formatting Made Easy
After rewriting, cutting, and rewriting again it is now time to type it up and send it to an editor. When typing a picture book use the same format as with any manuscript. The first page of the manuscript should contain contact information, number of pages, date, and number of words. Also use 12 point type in Courier or Times Roman for the manuscript. Always include a cover letter unless otherwise stated by the editor.
Center title approximately five inches down from the top of the page. Double-space the manuscript and use one-inch margins. Make sure to number each page at the top right and add the story title on the top left in case the pages get separated. Never staple pages together always use a paper clip. It is advisable to read through the story deciding where book pages should be and double-space twice leaving four blank lines.
Check each editors preferences before sending a manuscript. Remember, editors spend all day reading manuscripts. If using snail mail use dark black ink for printing, it is easier on the eyes.
Annette Phillips - Annette Phillips is the Topic Editor for Natural Disasters. Phillips is also the author of Willow's Ride and a licensed Cosmetologist.
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