Want to Write a Children's Book?
Ten tips from Elizabeth Spurr
- Read at least 100 recent children’s picture books before you begin.
- Write down your story (don’t just talk about it).
- Keep it under 1,000 words — 500 is better.
- Don’t collaborate. If you are a writer, your publisher will find an illustrator. If you are an illustrator, write your own words.
- Think visually. You need 18-20 varied scenes. Sketch them with stick figures. (Don’t send these!)
- Find a critic or critique group you trust. (Not your children!)
- Attend writing conferences, especially SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators).
- Join SCBWI. Call (323) 782-1010 or visit www.SCBWI.org.
- Submit relentlessly to both agents and editors. Learn to love rejection.
- Start another book. And do it now!