Publishing for Kids

So you've always dreamt of writing a children's book but have never been able to take it to a publisher? Well, you're not alone. Trying to tug at a child's heartstrings through a story is often difficult. And with the myth circling around that, only people with a natural flair for writing can be successful in publishing, often curbs and hides away genuine potential. What then can one do to publish concepts and ideas for kids?

The first step is to identify what kind of writing you're really attracted to where kids are concerned. Look at various ideas like children's poems, short stories for young ones and even children's books. The next step: scout your local library and the bookstore to find out what's the latest in children's publishing. It's important to determine what made those best sellers successful. It is also important to perfect your writing before worrying about seeing your name in print. By practicing and practicing you can develop your own style. Signing up for writing classes can guide you in the right direction. Get feedback from young and old alike about your short stories. When writing poems or even children's books look out for illustration ideas which will help a child visualize even better what you're trying to say.

Publishing for kids begins with researching, which is as an important ingredient. The nature of the main characters in your story and the role he or she plays needs to be clear and specific. Remember you're targeting your book to kids. So also your poems have to be written in a crisp and clear format, something which is easy to remember and also rhymes, so that children can find it catchy. You also need to decide if you want an agent or wish to go through the procedure yourself. Most countries need you to have an agent representing you.

A good agent can help you understand the market better, simplify the paperwork as well as save you time and energy in getting your script in front of a publisher. An agent helps move things along albeit a little faster but again he cannot guarantee you a sure-shot sale. To approach a publishing house you need to be well prepared. Have your manuscript typed neatly only on one side of the paper and double spaced. Your 'cover page' must contain firstly, the books name, the author's name, the word count by chapter and pages in all, and lastly the page count.

Before you go either to an agent or publisher, you need to have a query letter prepared. A query letter gives them a gist of what exactly your story is about. If they are interested, they will ask you to send a few sample chapters. This helps publishers and editors to see if your story is worth publishing.
Its important to realize that you're story may be shelved by publishers. Don't let this dishearten you, but strive to do better next time. Accept it as feedback for you to improve on your next quest to write. Most of all enjoy the nourishing and fulfilling experience of writing.

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