How to Publish a Children's Book

By Nicki Howell

  • Overview

    When publishing a children's book, it's beneficial to have a plan. Carefully following each publisher's submission guidelines will protect your book from being rejected based on formatting or missing information. Plus, you have many important decisions to make, like if you want a book agent. But once your have a few resources in place, you're ready to start contacting publishers. Here's how to publish your children's book.

    • Step 1

      Visit your local library and speak with the children's librarian about your book. Based on the current trends, ask her for feedback before submitting your manuscript. This will assist in making your book more marketable.

    • Step 2

      Make a list of publishers. Publishing Central offers a free list of publishers or you can check out a copy of "The Children's Writers and Illustrator's Market" from your library. It has contact information on over 300 publishers. It also can tips for submitting your query letters to potential publishers.

    • Step 3

      Start sending out query letters and manuscripts to potential publishers. Read each publisher's requirements carefully. If you don't send information in the requested format, it may be rejected. Generally, publishers want book manuscripts to be double-spaced and in a specific font such as Times New Roman or Arial.

    • Step 4

      Determine if you want a book agent. A book agent can get your manuscript in front of publishers that don't accept unsolicited manuscripts. However, expect to pay a commission of about 15 percent to an agent.

    • Step 5

      Join professional organizations to begin networking. The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators provides educational opportunities, online resources and opportunities to meet with other writers.
    • Skill: Moderate
    • Tip: Don't get discouraged if your book gets rejected. Apply to as many publishers as possible and expect many rejection letters as part of the process.
    • Warning:
    • Don't attempt to illustrate your own book unless you're a professional. If book publishers accept your manuscript, they can connect you with an illustrator.

    © Demand Media 2011