At first glance, writing a children’s picture book might seem easier than writing an adult novel. The reason for this is because picture books are short, usually under 1,000 words, and often include colorful illustrations and simple language.
Adult novels, on the other hand, can run into tens of thousands of words and delve into complex characters and themes.
But while it’s true that a picture book has fewer words, that doesn’t necessarily make it easier to write. In fact, both forms of writing come with their own unique challenges, and what’s considered ‘easier’ often depends on your skills, experience, and creative goals.
THE CHALLENGE OF WRITING UNDER 1000 WORDS
Children’s picture books are short. In fact, fewer than 600 words is preferred in today’s market.
Writing a complete story with an engaging plot and fully developed character arcs in such a small word count is challenging. The story must be written with clarity and rhythm. Every word must earn its keep.
In addition, writers must convey a compelling plot, evoke emotions, and include a satisfying message or lesson (the take-away value) in a few hundred words.
There’s no room for rambling or subplots. The language must be age-appropriate while avoiding being condescending. Sentences should be simple yet lyrical enough to be read aloud repeatedly by parents without becoming boring. That’s a tall order.
Crafting something so short and memorable can take many drafts and a deep understanding of children’s storytelling fundamentals.
VISUAL STORYTELLING AND ILLUSTRATOR COLLABORATION
Unlike adult novels, picture books rely heavily on illustrations to tell the story. This means authors must think visually, even if they’re not the ones creating the images. Writers have to leave space for the illustrator to expand on the narrative and enhance the mood and humor. This collaboration allows the writer to avoid overly descriptive text.
The best picture books are a partnership between text and illustrations, with the story being conveyed through both mediums.
To accomplish this, authors must trust illustrators to bring their vision to life while writing in a way that lends itself to visual interpretation. Good illustrators can create scenes that the author didn't even think of.
THE LONGER NOVEL ROAD
On the other hand, writing an adult novel requires endurance, structure, and consistency over a long period of time. Novelists must delve deep into characters, weave plots and subplots, and maintain momentum over hundreds of pages. This takes patience, careful planning, and the ability to sustain creativity over months... or years.
Novels also allow more room for descriptiveness, exploration, and voice. Writers can afford to meander a bit to let their characters evolve. This freedom can be freeing, but it can also lead to the kind of structural problems that require major rewrites.
Keeping the reader engaged for hundreds of pages is no small feat.
AUDIENCE EXPECTATIONS
Another key difference between genres lies in the audiences. Writing for children means thinking like a child. The writer must see the world with fresh eyes and curiosity, and balance fun with age-appropriate meaning.
Adults, on the other hand, look for depth, tone, and layered storytelling.
It’s not just the reader's age that matters—it’s their emotional and cognitive development. For children, the story must be instantly engaging, relatable, and easy to follow. The young reader needs to quickly connect to the protagonist.
Adult readers may be more patient but also more critical, expecting originality and style.
PUBLISHING CONSIDERATIONS
Regarding the publishing industry, both genres are competitive but in different ways. Picture books must go through gatekeepers because they require a financial investment in illustrations and design. Editors are selective; they usually acquire only a few manuscripts a year. The bar is high because the market is saturated with existing classics and recurring bestsellers.
Adult novels have more variety in length and genre, but breaking in is no easier. Novelists need to demonstrate strong storytelling skills. There’s a wider field of opportunity, but also more writers competing for attention.
SO, WHICH IS EASIER?
There’s no absolute answer to this question. Writing a picture book is not a shortcut to becoming a published author; it’s a specific craft that requires just as much effort as writing a novel, though in different ways. If you’re a visual thinker, you may find picture books a more natural fit.
If you’re drawn to deep character arcs and intricate plots, and having the freedom of description and adding subplots, novels might suit you better.
Both genres demand creativity, discipline, skill, and a love for storytelling. The easiest one to write is the one that plays to your strengths; the hardest is the one you underestimate.
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I’m a working children’s ghostwriter, rewriter, and coach. I can help turn your story into a book you’ll be proud to be the author of, one that’s publishable and marketable.
OTHER HELP I OFFER:
HOW TO WRITE A CHILDREN'S FICTION BOOK
A DIY book to help you write your own children’s book.
FICTION WRITING FOR CHILDREN eCOURSE
4-Weeks / 8 Sections Guided Self-Study Mentoring Program
You can contact me at kcioffiventrice@gmail.com.
