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1. How do I start writing for children? - The best way is to get involved. Join online writing groups, subscribe to newsletters and magazines, visit the library and check out books on how to write. Most importantly, read children’s books and start writing. 2. Do I need an illustrator? - No. Most publishers prefer to find their own illustrators, matching up writer’s styles with an artist’s. In fact, I would highly recommend that you do not use an illustrator unless that person is a professional. Even then I would let the publisher know that you have an illustrator in mind and ask if you or the illustrator can send samples of the artwork. 3. Do I need to copyright my work? - This is up to each writer. Personally, I do not copyright my work because once you write something down, it is automatically considered copyrighted. Most publishers understand this and you should always submit to a reputable publisher such as those listed in the Children’s Writer’s and Illustrator’s Market guide published by Writer’s Digest. When a publisher contracts a book with you, they will purchase the copyright for you and in your name. For more information on copyrights visit: : http://www.copyrightwebsite.com/ 4. Do I need an agent? - No. Many writer’s are published without an agent. Finding a reputable and well established agent is sometimes as hard as getting published. If you choose to pursue an agent you should have writing credits already and some kind of writing resume. Of course, an agent can help you in many ways too, but remember they do receive a commission on your profits. Usually 10-20%. Never pay an agent or editor a reading fee and don’t pay someone to represent you. 5. Should I take writing courses? - When I first started out I took the writing course at the Institute of Children’s Literature. I also majored in English in college and feel that without these courses I might not have succeeded at writing for children. They are not completely necessary however I feel anytime you can expand your horizons, it’s probably not a bad idea. Attending writing conferences and meeting people in the writing industry offers many opportunities not just to learn, but to make important contacts. If you can financially do it and have the time I think it would be well worth it! 6. Is writing for children easier than writing for adults? - One of the biggest myths out there is that writing for children is easy. This is far from the truth. In fact, I write for adults too and I think writing for children is much harder. I think of it as an art form, something that needs to be developed over time. Often you will hear other writers refer to writing for children as a craft. Many elements go into writing for children. Words must be specifically and deliberately chosen, rhyme must make sense and flow smoothly, conflict must be stated early on, characters need to be well developed– and all in a short amount of space! 7. Where do I submit my stories? - Honestly, and I know I’m pushing this book, but I think it will be one of your greatest investments is the Children’s Writer’s and Illustrator’s Market Guide. As well, The Institute of Children's Literature offers some invaluable books to both students and non-students. The CWIM lists many of the book publishers and magazines accepting stories and articles. It tells you exactly what they are looking for and how to submit to them. The secret: follow their guidelines perfectly! If you don’t you’ll end up in the slush pile! Or better yet, learn all you need to know through an extensive course offered by the Institute of Children's Literature. 8. What is the slush pile? - It is the pile of manuscripts editors look at each day. This pile may be huge as some book publishers receive thousands of manuscripts a month. How do you get noticed in such a huge pile? Keep your manuscripts neat, professional and your letters to the point. NO fancy fonts or colored papers please. Make sure that your work is the best it can be and that it truly fits the needs, wants, desires or the publisher. |
