The Question Of How Do I Get A Childrens Book Published Answered

By Carmella Watts


If you have a completed manuscript, you may well ask, "How do I get a childrens book published?" It is quite an accomplishment to just get the manuscript written. Now, you most likely want it to get in print, either because you want the compensation available, or you just want to see it in print. You also want to share your message with those for which it is intended. To do this, you need to get it in print.

There are a couple of routes to go in getting published. One is, of course, the conventional submitting to a traditional publisher. This can be done personally or through an agent. If you use an agent, prepare to share a percentage of your advance and royalties with the agent. This may be preferable, however, as they not only do all the work for you, but they usually can get a better deal for you.

You can publish your manuscript yourself, either through a vanity press or a print-on-demand (POD) company. With the vanity press, you pay them a fee to print the book for you. You will have to do all the promotion yourself. With the POD company, they print the copies, and you pay for them, only as orders are submitted, meaning you have sold the copy. You will want to have a few on hand though. Then, of course, you can print and bind things yourself if you have the expertise to do so.

Before even thinking about submitting a manuscript, whether to an agent, a publisher, or a self-publishing company, make sure it is in as perfect condition as you can possibly get it. If not, your readers will be very quick to point out errors, to your embarrassment, if it even gets that far.

Finding the right place to submit your manuscript is not really easy. You will do well to build a network. This can be done by joining a writers group, either one with similar interests or simply a critique group. They will be able to share contacts to editors with you. Just be sure to share what you know as well. A plus here is that you have a ready source to have your manuscript critiqued.

It is a good idea to join a professional writing organization such as the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. It looks good in the cover letter, and shows potential agents or editors that you are taking yourself seriously.

Attending writing conferences are another way to further your career. Not only will you get lots of good instruction and practice, you will be staying abreast of the latest in the industry. Most conferences have the provision to meet with editors to pitch your work. Take advantage of these opportunities every time you can.

Writing is only half the fun. If you are a writer for young people, you will most likely, at some point, ask, "How do I get a childrens book published?" Finding the right answer for you means looking at the options and deciding what you need and want from a publisher.




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