Writing a Memorable Picture Book / Selling Your Experience to a Publisher
We get lots of e-mails from writers with questions, and we do our best to answer as many as possible. Here’s a sampling of some common questions, along with responses from Children’s Book Insider Editor Laura Backes….
Q: What are the qualities that make a memorable picture book?
A: Many things make a picture book memorable. Well-defined characters with which young children can identity, and who have a problem or goal that young children can understand and find important. A well-paced plot that inspires the child to turn the page and see what happens next. Lyrical, rhythmic text that sounds appealing when read out loud. Engaging illustrations that contain details not found in the text, and also add another layer to the story. And finally, an original, imaginative story that the child, parent and editor haven’t seen before!
If you think about your favorite books from your own childhood, they are probably stories that made you feel something: wonder, joy, excitement, surprise, or even sadness. Those stories that speak directly to a child’s emotions are always the most memorable.
Q: I am considering submitting to a publisher who requests a cover letter, full manuscript and information on my personal/professional background. Would this personal/professional info. be included in a cover letter or in a resume? Also, I don’t have recent professional experience as I am currently a homemaker. Do I state this or only include my previous professional experience (which does not relate to writing though does relate to children)?
The personal/professional information would be presented in a short paragraph in your cover letter. Any professional experience that relates to writing or children can be included. If you were formerly a teacher, for example, that’s relevant. If you’ve been published but it was for the adult market, I believe you can still include that information in your cover letter. However, if you’re unpublished but a member of a writing organization such as the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators, this information would be of interest to an editor. If you’re without experience, don’t worry about it. Simply skip this paragraph.
For much more information about writing children’s books, visit the Home of the Fightin’ Bookworms - http://cbiclubhouse.com
