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So you’d like to write a children’s picture book, but you don’t know where to start? Picture books are wonderful, visually engaging exercises for children. Read the following article to learn how to write original picture books.
In general, picture books are 30-34 pages long. Publishers often state that they must be 32 pages, so this is a good estimation. Not all of this space needs text. The entire picture book can be pictures, or pictures can be mixed with text throughout. An ideal book is one with pictures on both pages of an open book, and writing on at least one page. When writing a picture book, it is wise to avoid poetry, and instead attempt to write lyrical language. This is because publishers rarely accept poetry from other than a select group of writers. When submitting a picture book, it is not advised to also submit illustrations. Publishers often provide an illustrator after revising a book.
Picture books exist in three categories: 2-6 years, 6-10 years, and 10 and up. When writing, it’s wise to set your ideas down carefully first on paper in an outline to determine which audience you are writing for. Several gradations exist of this genre. A “classic” picture book contains only picture. “Contemporary” picture books contain text and writing that complement each other. There are occasional variations from this format, in special cases.
Themes for picture books can vary. In general, it is nice to avoid themes that are frequently used, because publishers are on the lookout to discard these. Young children often enjoy stories of animals, humorous happenings and family. Themes that center around school are good ideas for any age category. Older children require more original stories, ranging from problem to maturity to dating issues. If you are at a loss for subject, try using on of these three categories: Concept books, Informational books and Specialty books. Concept books teach a concept, perhaps science or math. Informational books provide an engaging review of non-fictional elements. Specialty books deal with creation of manufacturers and branding, like pop-up books and coloring books.
Because these books are so small, one usually needs a stellar writing style to get them published. Writers like Shel Silverstein and Doctor Seuss have an intensely developed personal style. Their writing could be identified anywhere. Try and establish this same kind of indispensable style, and publishers will review your work more carefully. A great place to get ideas is a bookstore, where you can review other writers, and their ideas. Another great place for ideas is everyday life. The strangest stories can sometimes be generated by someone in your neighborhood, or a story that you heard growing up.
A good way to approach the picture book, therefore, is to look at it as if it were a novel. Don’t be fooled by its small size. Taking a story that could be given the complexity of a novel and making it a picture book ensures that your plot will be sophisticated and engaging. Also, avoid talking down, or using overly simplistic language. Children are very smart, and publishers are always looking for reading that provides a challenge. Remember that parents are also readers of your material. Strive for work that is entertainment for both.
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