I read an interesting article from a self-publishing service (1106 Design). The article explains that the best way to produce a children’s picture book is to create the interior layout before getting the illustrations done.
This is something I hadn’t thought of. But it makes so much sense.
I write a lot of stories for clients, and in the past, that was usually the end of my involvement. That is aside from providing my clients with the names of two or three illustrators and book designers to work with after they have completed manuscripts. But I usually didn’t go beyond that.
I provide the list because most people new to the writing arena aren’t aware of the next steps. They need help.
I’ve since created a self-publishing service for my children’s book clients because I know they need help, and I know how many scammers are out there.
So, here are the next steps once you have a completed manuscript, whether you wrote it yourself or had it ghostwritten.
The DIY Beginning – Start with the Story
The first step to self-publishing a picture book is to have a finished manuscript.
Once that’s done, the author hires an illustrator who creates the interior illustrations, and usually the front and back covers.
Number of Illustrations, What Size, and the Layout
At this point, the author needs to discuss with the illustrator how the book is to be laid out.
Does the author want an illustration on each page? On every other page?
Keep in mind that having an illustration on every other page cuts the number of interior illustrations needed in half. This cuts the cost of interior illustrations in half. It’s a huge factor, and the decision is usually based on the budget of the author.
Once that’s decided, the illustrator and author decide if full-page, half-page, quarter-page, or spot illustrations should be used, or a combination. Keep in mind that the type of illustration determines the cost.
The article I mentioned earlier notes that it’s best to let the illustrator lay out the pages for the text and illustrations. It creates a much more professional and engaging finished product.
If you look at books like “The Berenstain Bears”, “D.W. The Picky Eater” by Marc Brown, or even “Sophia Mouse” (a simple chapter book), the text can be anywhere on the page. But it needs to work with the illustrations.
You want to be able to easily read the text.
This is why your illustrator needs a copy of the manuscript to create the layout before creating the illustrations. It will ensure that the illustrations fit the space allotted to them.
A great way for you to determine how you want your picture book to look is to do some research. Find books that you like and let your illustrator know what look you’d like to go for.
So, when going into this, find out whether the illustrator inputs the text.
I work with an illustrator who doesn’t even input the cover text.
Know what you’re getting into.
If the illustrator doesn’t input the text, you will need to request that he ensure he leaves enough room for it.
This goes for chapter books as well.
Your Illustrations are Done
Once the illustrations are done, the illustrator will give you a PDF file or the individual illustrations, including the cover. You will send everything to the book designer/formatter.
The book designer will put it together. You will, however, need to explain which illustration goes on which page and where on the page. A good formatter will know what to do.
When done, the designer will give you print-ready files for ebook upload and print upload to sites like Amazon (retailer and distributor) or IngramSpark (aggregator).
You will take the print-ready files and upload them to whatever retailer or book distributor you intend to use.
This is the Do-It-Yourself way.
An Alternative
If the above seems like too much work, you do have an option: hire a self-publishing company to do it all for you.
There are A LOT of companies out there that just want your money, and every year, they are getting more devious. So, BUYER BEWARE.
Research, research, research self-publishing companies before handing over your money.
Once you find a reputable company, they will take your manuscript and illustrations and put the book together for you.
Some of these companies even offer illustrations, making your life even easier.
Just be sure the self-publishing company handles children’s picture books. This is very important. And make sure the illustrators they hire are experienced.
One reputable company is 1106Design.com. However, keep in mind that the convenience comes at a price. Depending on which service you use, you may need a hefty budget.
AGAIN, be careful.
To read the article I referred to, click the link: https://www.1106design.com/2017/01/25/want-to-publish-a-beautiful-childrens-book-heres-how
I’m a working children’s ghostwriter, rewriter, editor, 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.
PICTURE BOOK, CHAPTER BOOK, MIDDLE GRADE COACHING
Four to twelve-week coaching programs.
FICTION WRITING FOR CHILDREN eCOURSE
4-Weeks / 8 Sections Guided Self-Study Mentoring Program
You can contact me at: kcioffiventrice@gmail.com. Or give me a call at 347—834—6700. (Please leave a message- I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.)
MORE ON WRITING FOR CHILDREN
Children’s Series Writing – Is It For You?
Writing a Book – Bait and Switch Editing
Self-Publishing a Picture Book and Vanity Presses
