Publishing a book is an ambition that many people often have at some point in their lives. This is especially those who have lived through numerous unique experiences or have abundant career-related information they’re willing to share.
Publishing a children’s book, though, is a process that has slightly different steps, and not everyone knows how to go about it.
Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about how to publish a children’s book.
1. Write and Edit Your Script
As you may expect, the first (and most crucial) step in the process involves writing the script for your book. Although it can be tempting to immediately focus on the visuals and aesthetics, there needs to be a solid story in place for children to follow along.
It should be noted that children are generally able to understand relatively difficult concepts (such as the motives behind good, evil, or somewhere in between) at a young age. This also includes romance, jealousy, etc.
So, the subject matter is often not an issue when writing. As long as the language is brief and understandable for the target age group, you shouldn’t experience any complications.
After you’ve written your script, you’ll also need to work with an editor to help refine it as much as possible. In fact, you’ll need to be sure that it’s as close to perfect as possible before you move forward.
When attempting to find an editor, search for one who has plenty of experience in the genre you’re writing in order to get the best results.
2. Work With an Illustrator
After you’ve perfected your script, it’s time to bring your words to life through visuals.
The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to this part of the process. There are thousands of illustrators that each have their own unique style, and you’ll often be able to commission work from them as long as they have an opening in their schedule.
It’s important to note, though, that you should set your budget to at least a few thousand dollars before you begin your search. It often takes months of work to completely illustrate a book, so you’ll need to keep this in mind while looking for talent.
Although it’s possible to find someone who will take royalty split as a form of compensation, most illustrators will want to be paid a flat fee in exchange for their work on your project.
3. Work With a Book Designer
Although an illustrator can often provide breathtaking art, they typically aren’t experienced with the concept of book design as a whole. This means you’ll also need to look for someone who’s experienced in working with the layout and typography of children’s books.
If possible, begin looking for a book designer while the illustrator is still working on your project. They’ll be able to help you decide what areas of the books should include art, where text should be placed, etc.
4. Find a Distributor/Printer
In order to get your book to a physical medium, you’ll need to find a printer that can bring your content to life.
Although it’s a common temporary practice to publish books online (which also allows for digitally-drawn visuals), many children prefer to hold something as they read (or have it read to them).
You can begin your search by looking for a printer that works with the type of medium you’d like to distribute (custom board book printing, for example).
Afterward, you’ll need to find a distributor who can help you sell your book through major retailers. Key outlets to focus on are Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
5. Contact Libraries
Getting your book listed in libraries is one of the best ways to spread awareness of your project. It also provides both parents and children the opportunity to interact with the book you’ve published, especially if your book has attractive cover art.
You’ll also experience the benefit of free advertising that can lead parents to check out other books published under your name in the future. Over time, they’ll likely tell their friends and family about your work, leading to increased exposure.
The children who read your boom may also want to show their friends.
6. Market Your Book
There’s a handful of different ways that you can handle the marketing of your book. These include hosting a book party, passing out flyers, working with an influencer, etc.
But, it’s important to remember a few concepts, with the most important being that you’re actually marketing toward the parents of the children and not the children themselves.
That isn’t to say, though, that your cover art shouldn’t be attractive and engaging. Having your artwork immediately appeal to children is an essential factor.
As you may expect, the content itself should also be highly appealing to the children you’re marketing toward. If you’re able to work in themes or elements of humor that only adults would understand, you’ll also increase your chances of parents buying more of your books in the future.
Understanding How to Publish a Children’s Book Can Seem Difficult
But it doesn’t have to be.
With the above information about how to publish a children’s book in mind, you’ll be well on your way toward making the process go as smoothly as possible.
Want to learn more lifestyle tips that can help you out in the future? Be sure to check out the rest of our blog.
