So you want to write a children’s book?

books / Dear Genny / writing

I wanted to share a question I got recently from a reader because I thought it might be helpful to others if I posted it…

Richele asked:

Genny,

I saw that you are a writer. I have a children’s book I am working on. Can I ask you about how you get an illustrator? Do you find one or does the publisher handle that aspect? Also, do I need a literary agent to get a book published?

I am trying to make my way in the writing world! 

Thanks!

Richele
https://www.underthegoldenappletree.com/
https://www.4minihands.com/

I answered:

Hi Richele,

Good for you for pursuing writing for children! I’d recommend going to www.scbwi.org then clicking on the lower right corner where it says “Just Getting Started.” SCBWI stands for the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and the organization is a great resource. There are a lot of documents on the website that can help you, such as the Top Ten FAQ in Children’s Publishing.

And a quick answer to your questions: the editor at the publishing house is the one who finds the illustrator for your work, and, no you don’t need an agent to get published, though many publishing houses only accept submissions through agents.

Thanks for letting me share your question, Richele!

If anyone reading this is interested in learning more about writing for children, I recommend clicking over to the site I refer to above https://www.scbwi.org/. You’ll find more detail about things like the submission process, whether or not to get an agent, and how to format your manuscripts.

I’ve been involved with SCBWI as an Assistant Regional Advisor for years. Not only is it a wonderful group of people (at our last conference in Rocklin, CA someone commented that children’s writers are the nicest demographic in the world!), but by getting involved, you’ll learn more about the industry and the publishing process, and you’ll be able to network with other writers / illustrators. It’s an international organization, with chapters all over the world.

To find more resources, you can also visit my Writing Resources page on my website and see some helpful links there.

Have a great weekend, everyone! Do you have any fun plans? We’ve got a family reunion and swim meet and are looking forward to both! :)

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Comments

  1. GumDropSwap

    I have been a member of SCBWI since I graduated college where I focused on children's book illustration. It is a great resource. Although, I've taken a different path in my career, I still hope to eventually illustrate a book that gets published. Following you through MBC! Please visit my blog https://gumdropswap.blogspot.com when you get a chance!

  2. Dr.Mom

    Thanks so much for sharing this info. I have a really good friend in the midst of writing a childrns book, I'm going to forward her this info. Have a wonderful family reunion! We're headed to the beach, can't wait.

  3. Amanda

    Thanks for the links! I have been thinking about doing a cookbook… and had no idea where to start!~Blessings-Amanda

Comments are closed.