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How to Publish Your Self-Illustrated Picture Book Perfect Your Manuscript Polish your picture-book-length (500 words or fewer) story. Read it out loud lots of times and share it with children. Make sure you’ve given yourself enough words on each spread to craft a dynamic and appealing illustration. Your pictures should enhance, not duplicate, the text. Seek out a professional children’s book editor or barter critiques with other picture book writers. Remember that picture books are 32 pages. Storyboard all 32 pages (that’s about 12-14 illustrations/spreads plus front/back matter) with pencil thumbnails before you create your art. Make a (digital or hand-sewn) dummy of your picture book to get a feel for text size/placement, story pacing and flow. Make sure there’s something happening or surprising on each and every page turn. Draw or Paint Your Book’s Final Illustrations Choose Your Publishing Path Traditionally published author-illustrators send a query letter and dummy to publishers or agents. Keep in mind that some publishers and agents prefer a picture book dummy (sometimes called a visual presentation) made up of pencil thumbnails while others prefer to see two to three final art samples with your query. Expect lots of rejection and a long waiting period. The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) can help you research markets. Self-publish your picture book if you want creative control and a bigger piece of the royalty pie. Self-publishing means that you have to write, illustrate, finance, and market your children’s book. It works well if you’re illustrating a book that falls into a niche or if you want to get your picture book out ASAP. Prepare Final Artwork (Self-Publishing) If you’ve created digital art, make sure that the pictures are at least 300 DPI resolution, saved in CMYK color mode (or to each printer’s specifications) and have a .125 bleed on all four sides of the picture. Common children’s book sizes are 8.5 x 8.5” and 8 x 10”. Leave at least 1/2” on all four sides of your illustrations (called the safety area) free of any live text or important bits of your pictures. Also avoid placing key elements of your illustrations in the gutter, which is the middle of a picture-book spread. Handle the Details Pick a legible child-friendly typeface that contrasts well with your illustrations. Order an ISBN number if you live in the US from the official agency, Bowker, to remain credited as the book’s publisher. Register your original work with the U.S. Copyright Office. Select a Printing Platform Print your book with print-on-demand publishers like Amazon KDP and IngramSpark for wider distribution without inventory costs. Consider offset printing, which is less per-unit, if you plan to sell a lot of books and want to order a deluxe hardcover picture book. Always request a galley/proof copy of your children’s book so you can check the colors. Market Your Book Have an author website and email list set up before release day. Pitch your picture book to independent bookstores, parenting bloggers, school librarians, etc. Plan book promotions (downloadable coloring/activity sheets) and offer to visit schools and do story-times. Solicit reviews by sending out ARC (advanced reader) copies. Consider launching a crowdfunding campaign to raise money for an offset print run and drum up interest for your illustrated children’s book. Keep Creating Study the successes/failures of your first children’s book, solicit reader feedback, and plot your next children’s book. Building a strong backlist is the goal of most authors/illustrators.

# How to Get Your Self Illustrated Picture Book Published ## 1. Finish Your Manuscript Picture books are generally less than 500 words and have 32 pages. Write concisely and read it out loud many times. Test it on kids if possible. Want readers to be intrigued on each page. Don't describe what the illustrations are showing you can use them to help tell your story. ## 2. Develop a Story Board and Dummy Do thumbnail sketches for your 32 pages. It will most likely be 12-14 spreads and additional cover/pages at the beginning and end. Make a dummy to see how the book flows. Allow space for the gutter because it will eat into your artwork when printed. ## 3. Decide How you Want to Publish **Traditionally: ** Author-Illustrators usually send in their completed manuscript and dummy along with 2 or 3 full illustrations. You can query an agent or look for markets that take submissions. Make sure to read the submissions guidelines. It may take some time to get your book published and you may get many rejections. There are many market lists available on the SCBWI site. **Self: ** When self publishing you can publish as soon as you'd like and will receive more profit from sales. But you will have to pay for the production and find ways to advertise your book. ## 4. Finish Your Illustrations If you are self publishing make sure your images are high quality (minimum 300dpi). Use Cmyk and give a .125 bleed. Make your book the appropriate size. Some sizes are 8.5x8.5 or 8x10 inches. Keep everything .5" away from the edge of your book. ## 5. Finishing Touches - Have your book edited or swap with another writer. - Make sure your font is legible. - Get your ISBN from bowker.com this will allow you to be the publisher. - Copyright your book through the Copyright Office. ## 6. Find a Printer Amazon KDP and Ingrams Spark will print your book on demand and give you access to distribute your book. If you want to order many at once you can try offset printing. Order a proof from whichever company you decide to use and make sure your colors look correct. ## 7. Advertise Your Book Create a website and mailing list before your book is published. Contact local school librarians, book stores and blogs. Do school programs and create fun activities that can go along with your book. You can also get your book reviewed before its released. Some people choose to crowdfund their books which is a great way to finance the cost of printing. ## 8. Work On More Books Once you have one book published continue to write and publish more books!

How to Get Your Own Self-Illustrated Picture Book Published 1. Get Your Manuscript Ready for Publishing Picture books typically contain less than 500 words per book, as well as 32 pages. When writing picture books, it is important to write tightly; to read your writing out loud on a regular basis; and to test the story with children. Each time you turn a page, there should be some sort of small surprise or visual reward. Additionally, please remember that your illustrations can help tell part of the story, therefore do not describe things that are already shown in the art. 2. Develop a Storyboard and Dummy Build a "dummy" copy of your book (either by cutting paper/cardboard/etc., or creating it digitally) so that you can see how the pages will look when they are printed. Check the pace of your story, where the text goes, and the general layout. When designing your pages, make sure to leave enough room at the top/bottom/sides for the "gutters" on each page, as some of your most important details may get lost in the center fold of the book. 3. Select your publishing option Author/Illustrator Submissions to Traditional Publishers Author/illustrators usually send the complete manuscript, a "dummy," and 2-3 completed sample illustrations. You should find literary agents/publishers that will review your submission and follow their submission requirements exactly. Be prepared to wait weeks/months/years for responses and rejection letters. SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators) can help you find potential markets. With self-publishing, you retain creative control over your work as well as receive higher royalty payments; however, you will be responsible for producing, financing, and advertising your book. If you are looking to get your book published quickly or if you have a specific target market that is relatively small, self-publishing may be an option for you. 4. Finalizing Your Design Work For Self-Publishing Minimum resolution for printing is 300 DPI, and you can either use CMYK or the printer's specific color profile. You should provide a 0.125-inch bleed around each page. Select a common trim size like 8.5 x 8.5 inches or 8 x 10 inches. Ensure that your text and key art are located no closer than 0.5 inches from the edge of the page. 5. Pay Attention to the Specifics Editing: Work with a children's book editor, or trade critiques with other writers. Font Choice: Utilize legible, user friendly fonts with high color contrast. ISBN – Purchase your own via Bowker (USA) and have yourself listed as publisher. Copyright - Register your work with the U.S. Copyright Office. Select Your Preferred Print Vendor Print-on-demand providers (such as Amazon KDP and IngramSpark) do not require you to hold stock of your books before you sell them; however, they provide broad distribution of your books. Offset printing should be used when you want to produce high-quality hardcovers or large quantities of your books. Offset printing will reduce the cost per book as long as you print enough copies. No matter how you choose to print your books, always request a proof copy of your book from your printer to ensure that the colors look right in person. Now, it's time to sell your book! Build an author website and email list prior to your launch. Connect with school libraries, local independent book stores, and parent bloggers. Provide reading events, classroom visits, and printable activities. Obtain early reviews by providing advance review copies of your book. Consider doing a Kickstarter (or other crowdfunding) campaign to finance the printing of your book and create a following. 8. Keep Creating Many times, success as an author of picture books comes down to creating a collection of your work. By learning what has worked for you based upon the sales data and the feedback you have received from your readers; you can begin to write the next chapter of your career. The patience, polish, and persistence that went into creating your illustrated vision will help it connect with young people all over the world.

# How to Self-Publish Your Own Picture Book Self-publishing your own picture book is becoming easier with advances in digital printing technology, but a lot still goes into making your picture book a reality. Use this guide to get your picture book ready for the public. 1. Hone Your Manuscript Any picture book that's geared towards young children is typically less than 500 words and 32 pages (72 book pages with 16 spreads and front/back matter). The best way to evaluate your manuscript is by reading it out loud. If you need to, cut words to help it flow. Every spread should have a visual or conceptual punch. Your illustrations can help you tell the story and can help elaborate on concepts so you don't need to be overly descriptive in your manuscript. 2. Prepare a Storyboard and Dummy Once you've edited your manuscript and are ready to prepare your illustrations, sketch 32 pages (with front/back matter). Then, create a physical or digital dummy and evaluate pacing and illustration placement. Be sure to account for a gutter, the central fold will create a small gap where some illustration may be cut off. 3. Pick Your Process Traditional Publishing - The SCBWI can help you find traditional publishing routes and inform you on the latest news. Most author/illustrators will submit a manuscript, illustration dummy, and sample illustrations. Be prepared to be patient and receive a lot of rejections. Self-Publishing - You keep all control of your picture book, but you'll be responsible for the costs and promotion of the picture book. This option may be better for niche audiences. ## 4. Finalize Your Artwork Make sure to create your art at a minimum of 300 DPI, in CMYK. Add a 0.125" bleed to each page. With text and key art a minimum of 0.5" from the edge, choose a standard size, for example 8.5x8.5 or 8x10. ## 5. miscellaneous - Editing: Hire an editor experienced with the children's literature market. They can offer invaluable industry feedback and critiques. - Typography: Use easy to read, kid friendly fonts and increase point size for key art. - ISBN: With bowker.com, you can purchase your ISBN and claim your title as the publisher. - Copyright: Register your work with the U.S. copyright office. ## 6. Choose a Print Service If you want the widest distribution, opt for print on demand (POD) services like Amazon or IngramSpark. POD services have no up-front costs. For a lower unit cost with higher quality hardcovers, consider offset printing for large runs. Always ask for a proof. ## 7. Promote Your Book Before the launch, create a home base on the web and sign up for an email service. Connect with school librarians and bookstore owners. Offer to do readings and provide activity printables. Collect prior reviews and consider using a crowdfunding service to raise money for printing while building your audience. ## 8. Stay the Course The best way to find success with the children's literature market is to establish a catalog with a variety of titles. With your illustrations and stories, you can reach and entertain audiences of all ages and provide something to read while we wait for the next big thing!

How to Publish a Picture Book Guide ## 1. Perfect Your Manuscript A picture book is usually 500 words or less and 32 pages long. Write a concise script, read it aloud to catch inflection and rhythm, and test it with children. Remember that the illustrations tell part of the story, so don’t describe elements that will be seen in the artwork. ## 2. Create a Storyboard and Dummy Draw thumbnail sketches of each 32-page spread (usually 12-14 pages, plus front and end matter), then create a dummy to see how the story flows from one page to the next. Allow space for the gutter (where pages are folded) so important elements aren’t lost in the middle of a spread. ## 3. Choose Your Publishing Route Traditional publishing: Most picture book authors and illustrators begin the process by preparing a polished manuscript and sample illustrations (about two or three spreads) and a dummy (see above). Query literary agents and publishers that buy picture books, following their guidelines for submissions, and be prepared for a lengthy and possibly discouraging process. The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) offers valuable resources for finding markets for your stories. Self-publishing: If you want more control and a greater profit per copy sold, self-publishing offers those benefits, but requires more time and money. For this option, see How to Self-publish a Picture Book. ## 4. Prepare Your Finished Artwork (for Self-publishers) If you are self-publishing, prepare your image files at 300 dpi resolution and in CMYK color mode or the printer’s preferred color space. The files should have a 0.125 bleed, and be in a standard trim size such as 8.5 x 8.5 or 8 x 10. Text and graphics should be at least 0.5 inches away from the edge of the page. ## 5. Tend to the Details Hiring an experienced children’s book editor can make a huge difference. Trade chapters with other writers or hire a professional editor to give you notes on your manuscript. Choose fonts that are engaging, large enough to read, and have sufficient contrast. Buy your ISBN through Bowker so that your book will appear in bibliographic databases as your publication. Register your copyright with the U.S Copyright Office. ## 6. Choose a Printing Option Online printers such as Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing and IngramSpark offer print-on-demand (POD) services for books. These are convenient options that don’t require large minimum orders or initial inventory. For larger print runs and higher quality (especially hardcover books), consider offset printing, in which the printing plates are assembled into a press and print copies one at a time. Always order a proof or sample copy to make sure the colors are rendered correctly. ## 7. Promote, Sell, and Distribute Your Book Create a website or blog and build an email list for launching your books. Market to school and public libraries as well as independent bookstores. Set up author visits and school talks, and provide printable activities and reading guides for teachers and parents. Build buzz by offering advance copies to influential reviewers and running a reward crowdfunding campaign to help defray expenses. Contact other parents and book lovers on social media to generate prelaunch interest and sales. ## 8. Continue to Write Building a catalog is a great way to build a better platform, and most self-published authors do this anyway. It’s also smart to listen to your audience and respond to their desires. Either way, your picture book career – with its characters, colors, and clever stories – will be on a steady upward trajectory.

# How to Release Your Self-Illustrated Picture Book ## 1. Finalize Your Manuscript Most picture storybooks measure fewer than 500 words and have 32 pages. Write precisely, read as you go and see how children react to your story. Each story page should have something unexpected for its reader. Keep in mind that illustrations can communicate parts of the story that the text does not. ## 2. Create a Dummy and Storyboard Prepare preliminary sketches for all 32 pages and then create a dummy version of the book to see how pacing and arrangement of text are working. Remember to leave enough space for horizontal sections because this part is going to hide some information. ## 3. Choose Your Publishing Form **Traditional publishing:** Typically, writers submit a manuscript together with samples of illustrations as well as a dummy version of a book. In this case, it is necessary to find out about agents or publishers, who do accept proposals and follow their rules closely. Be ready for a long waiting period and a lot of refusals. A wonderful source of different information about the market is the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. **Self-publishing:** In this case, you can remain creator of your book and have more royalties. Though at the same time, you will have a lot of work to do in terms of publishing your book. ## 4. Prepare Your Artwork (Self-Publishing) Use 300 DPI or higher and CMYK. Take into account that 0.125 bleeds are supposed to surround each sheet. Define the size of the book you want to create with such common formats as 8.5 x 8.5 inches or 8 x 10. ## 5. Manage the Details - **Editing:** Find a children's book editor or exchange ideas with other authors. - **Typography:** Use fonts suitable for kids and with good contrast. - **ISBN:** Buy the ISBN from Bowker so that you are listed as the one who publishes the book. - **Copyright:** Register your work at the U.S. Copyright Office. ## 6. Find a Printing Service Print-on-demand services such as Amazon KDP or IngramSpark do not require you to pay in advance and provide you with much provision. If you need something of higher quality or if looking for mass production you can consider offset printing, which is cheaper when the quantity is larger. Always request for a proof version and check on the color. ## 7. Advertise Your Book Set up a website and contact list before your release. Find schools and libraries willing to organize classes or visits for you. Encourage parents by learning them about your book and offer them to have reading sessions with their children. ## 8. Go Further Success in the field of picture storybooks is often due to having published several books. Learn from the experience and move on.

# How to Publish a Self-Illustrated Picture Book 1. Perfect Your Manuscript Most picture books are 500 words or less, and 32 pages long. Keep your writing concise, read out loud to ensure quality, and share your story with children to see how they respond. Each page turn should result in some kind of payoff or visual reward. Keep in mind, your illustrations can also tell part of the story, so don't describe what your artwork depicts. 2. Create a Storyboard and Dummy Create thumbnail sketches of all 32 pages (usually 12-14 spreads plus front and back matter). Use a mockup to evaluate pacing and flow, and make sure your text fits-make note of the gutters, as the center of the book can eat into your drawings. 3. Choose Your Publishing Path Old-fashioned publishing: Send a full manuscript and dummy along with two or three finished sample illustrations to a literary agent or a publisher who takes submissions. Research the specific guidelines for each publisher. Endure many rejections and longer wait times. Use SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators) as a resource for markets. Self-publishing: You retain all creative freedom and receive a higher cut of royalties but must take on production, costs and marketing. This option might be right for those who want to go fast or for a more niche audience. 4. Prepare Final Artwork (Self-Publishing) File at 300dpi+ in either CMYK or the printer's default colour profile. Include 0.125 inch bleed around each page. Indicate a standard trim size such as 8.5 x 8.5 or 8 x 10. Make sure that all text and main art is at least 0.5 inches from the edge of the page. 5. Handle the Details - Editing: Find a children's book editor or swap work with other writers. - Typography: Select an easy to read font, preferably child-friendly with high contrast. - ISBN: Purchase your own via Bowker (US) to be shown as publisher. - Copyright: Register your works with the U.S. Copyright Office. 6. Select a Printing Platform Online print on demand such as Amazon KDP & Ingram Spark don't require upfront copies to store and offer greater distribution. You may also want to look into offset printing if you plan to order higher quality hardcovers or quantities where the per copy costs make sense. Order a proof. Check color. 7. Market Your Book Create an author website and mailing list ahead of time. Contact school librarians, independent booksellers, and parenting bloggers. Provide signings, school visits, and free printables and activity guides. Generate buzz by requesting a few early reviews and see if you might run a Kickstarter to support printing while developing an audience. 8. Keep Creating Great picture books are the result of building a catalog. Based on what sells and what readers have to say, then get started on your next book. Step by step, with time, effort and perseverance, your illustrated dream can be in the hands of children around the globe.

with Seagull Books.Publishing your Self Illustrated Picture Book with Seagull Books. ## 1. Perfect Your Manuscript Most picture books are under 500 words and are 32 pages long. Write succinctly, read aloud frequently and do test the story with children. There should be a little surprise or payoff on every set of page turns. Keep in mind that art should tell some of the story; don't explain what the artwork already depicts. ## 2. Prepare Storyboard and Dummy Draw out all thumbnails (usually 12 - 14 spreads + front and back matter are 32 pages). Next create a real or virtual dummy to test pacing and text placement and flow. Allow for gutters as the center fold of this book can engulf important detail. ## 3. Pick Your Way to Publish! With traditional publishing, an author-illustrator usually sends out a completed manuscript and a dummy and 2 to 3 completed sample illustrations. Send form letters to literary agents or publishers who say that they take submissions and prompts; follow their rules closely. Be ready for waiting and being rejected. SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators) is a great market resource! Self publishing: You realize greater return on your work and are in charge of your own production, cost and marketing. This route is for speed and/or a particular market. ## 4. Create artwork for publication. Process to 300 DPI minimum in CMYK color or the printers current colour profile. Put a 0.125" bleed on each page. Get a normal trim size, 8.5 x 8.5 inches or 8 x 10 inches. Leave 0.5 inches or more margin between the text and key art and the edge of the paper. ## 5. Handle the Details Editing: Use a kids book editor or trade editing with other writers. - Typography: Readable, child friendly font & strong contrast. - ISBN - Purchase your own from Bowker (US) to be the publisher. - Copyright: File a registration with U.S. Copyright Office. ## 6. Choose a Printing Platform: POP platforms such as Amazon KDP and IngramSpark are all-inclusive: no initial stock and wide distribution. If a higher-quality hardcover or bulk printing is required, consider offset printing which will reduce per-unit printing rates with larger orders. Always get a test copy and verify colour accuracy. ## 7. Market Your Book Create an author site and list prior to launch. Contact school librarians, bookstores and parenting bloggers. Set up reading events, go into classrooms, and provide printables of activities. Write advance copies to collect early reviews and/or crowd-fund to ensure printing costs are taken care of and you have an audience. ## 8. Keep Creating One key to success in writing picture books is to build a catalog. Study from the sales, readership responses and begin another story. Patience, polish and persistence can bring your theatre of the mind to young readers worldwide!

# illustrated picture books – getting published ## 1. Get your manuscript ready The typical length of a picture book is 500 words or less. It usually includes 32 pages. Read it aloud to yourself and to others; share your story with kids. Each time you turn the page, there should be some type of visual interest or surprise. Since the artwork will likely illustrate parts of your story, do not write about things that will be shown by your drawings. ## 2. Make a story board and a dummy Create thumbnail sketches of all 32 pages (usually 12-14 spreads + front & back matter). Build a dummy using cardboard or paper — either physically or digitally. Check the pace, where the text goes on the page, and how well everything flows together. Give yourself room for gutter space because the middle fold of your book may gobble up important details. ## 3. Decide on an approach to publishing ### traditional publishing: Author/illustrators traditionally send a complete manuscript, a dummy, and two to three finished illustration samples to editors and/or agents. Research which literary agencies and/or publishing houses allow submissions; always follow their guidelines very closely. Be prepared to wait months, possibly years, for a response...and expect rejection. The society of children’s book writers and illustrators is a great source to find potential markets for your Work. ### self-publishing: You retain full creative control and significantly higher royalty rates than traditional publishing. However, you are responsible for creating, producing, and promoting your book. This method works best for those who wish to self-publish quickly, and/or create content for a specific niche market. ## 4. Create your final artwork (for self-published Work): Use a minimum resolution of 300 dpi; Use CMYK or the printer’s preferred color palette. Include .125 inch bleed area around each page. Choose one of the standard sizes such as 8.5 x 8.5 inches, or 8 x 10 inches. Ensure that your text and major art elements are at least .5 inches away from the edges. ## 5. Complete all the little things - **Editing:** hire a children’s book editor, or trade Editing ideas with fellow authors/writers. - **Typography:** choose simple-to-read fonts and solid contrasts. - **ISBN:** purchase an ISBN from bowker (for us), so you can show yourself as the publisher. - **copyrights:** file your Work with the U.S. Copyright Office. ## 6. Find a printer/printing service If you choose Print-on-demand services (such as Amazon kdp, or IngramSpark), they require no initial inventory and give you access to many channels of distribution. If you prefer higher quality hardcover editions, or if you anticipate large numbers of sales, look into offset printing options. Offset printing becomes less expensive when you buy in larger quantities. When ordering, always request a proof copy and verify your colors accurately. ## 7. Promote your book Before releasing your book, establish an author website and email list. Contact local school librarians, independent bookstore owners, blogging parents, etc., and ask them to review your book. Participate in readings at schools and libraries; provide free printable activities for classrooms; gather early reviews by sending advance copies to reviewers; if needed, organize a crowdfunding campaign to cover the printing cost while building a pre-release audience. ## 8. Continue writing Building a body of Work is essential to success in writing children’s picture books. Analyze why your previous books were successful (or not); listen to reader feedback; then begin working on your next project.

# How To Get Your Illustratively Illustrated Picture Book Published ## Polish Your Manuscript to Perfection. Usually picture books consist of around 500 words and contain 32 pages. Keep the writing as short as possible, read it aloud periodically, and test the story with children. Each turn of the page should comprise a tiny surprise. Your illustrations can help tell part of the story so do not describe what the illustration already shows. ## 2. Create a Storyboard and Model Design. Create small sketches of all 32 pages (generally 12-14 spreads, plus front and back matter). Create a physical or digital model to test speed, message placement, and transition. Make sure to keep a gutter so that the book’s center fold does not swallow important material. ## Decide on which publishing path to choose. The complete manuscript plus a dummy and two or three finished sample illustrations for author-illustrators to send in. Inquire literary agents or publishers who accept submissions and follow each guideline closely Anticipate lengthy delays and refusals. The SCBWI is a very good resource to find markets by Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. You retain creative control and a larger portion of sales income with self-publishing. This option works for those who want speed or have a niche audience. ## Get the final artwork ready. (5 words) In CMYK or the printer's color profile, work at 300 dpi minimum. Each page should have a 0.125-inch bleed. Opt for a standard trim size which is 8.5 x 8.5 inches or 8 x 10 inches. Avoid placing text and key art less than 0.5 inches from edges. ## Manage the Details in Style - Consider hiring an editor or swap critiques with other writers to fix mistakes. - Utilize fonts that will be legible to children. - Purchase your own via Bowker (US) so you’re listed as publisher. - Obtain copyright registration with the U.S. Copyright Bureau. ## Choose a Platform to Print on. Amazon KDP and IngramSpark are print-on-demand services that require no upfront inventory and have a broad reach. The cost per unit of offset printing becomes cheaper with increased quantity. Hence, offset printing may be ideal for quality hardbacks or bulk orders. Always order a proof copy to check for color accuracy. ## Promote Your Book. Create the author website and mailing list in advance. Connect with your local school libraries, independent book stores, parenting blogs. Enable reading events visits to the classroom and printables for classroom activities Collect the earlier reviews through advance copies and get your crowdfunding campaign to fund your printing and grow your audience. ## Keep making things up. Often, success in picture books comes from creating a catalog. Pay attention to sales as well as reader feedback and then start your next story. Your picture book can end up in the hands of young readers everywhere.

# How to Publish Your Self-Illustrated Picture Book ## 1. Perfect Your Manuscript Typically a picture book is 500 words or fewer and 32 pages long. In writing, try to be very concise, read your manuscript aloud many times, and get feedback from children. Also, remember that your illustrations can tell a great deal of the story, so be sure to not describe what the reader will already see. ## 2. Create a Storyboard and Dummy Turn your rough sketches into aStoryboard – laying out the illustrations for all 32 pages in the most logical order. Create a Dummy of your story – a rough mock-up of the actual book, including Space for Gutters and checking the flow of the text and illustrations across the center fold. ## 3. Choose Your Publishing Path **Traditional publishing:** Typically an author-illustrator would submit a complete manuscript, a storyboard/dummy, and two or three finished pieces of art to potential literary agents and/or publishers. Queries must follow the exact guidelines for each literary agent and/or publisher. Many wait long periods of time to hear back, and most get rejected. The SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators) is a great resource for searching for publishers who accept submissions. **Self-publishing:** While dealing with production, costs, and promotion, you keep creative control and higher royalties. This is a great way to create a book fast and reach your very specific target audience. ## 4. Prepare Final Artwork (Self-Publishing) Work in CMYK (or in your printer’s preferred color mode). Your art should be created at a high resolution (min. 300 DPI). Include 0.125 inch bleed on all pages. Utilize standard book dimensions (for example 8.5 x 8.5 in., 8 x 10 in., etc.). Leave sufficient space between text and primary art components (min. 0.5 in.). ## 5. Handle the Details - **Editing:** Get a children's book editor, or trade with other writers (i.e., exchange manuscript critiques for feedback on your work). - **Typography:** Use readable, child-friendly fonts and strong contrast. - **ISBN:** Purchase your own ISBN(s) through Bowker (US) and list yourself as the publisher. - **Copyright:** Register your work with the U.S. Copyright Office. ## 6. Select a Printing Platform Print-on-demand services (e.g. Amazon KDP, IngramSpark) can print and distribute individual copies of your book as orders come in, without requiring you to pay for upfront printing. For harder cover editions and lower unit pricing for large orders, consider using an offset printer. Always order a print proof to check for accurate color reproduction. ## 7. Market Your Book Build your author/illustrator website and email list well before your book launches. Contact local school librarians, indie bookstores, and parenting bloggers and writers to ask for review copies. Set up reading events, school and library visits, and offer printables of activities connected to the book on your website. You may even want to consider a crowd funding campaign to help cover printing costs and to gain exposure to potential readers. ## 8. Keep Creating Success in the picture book field typically comes to those who are able to build a catalog of work. Use the sales from and feedback of your books to begin writing your next. With patience, polish, and persistence, your illustrated book can find its way to children all over the world.

# How to Get Your Self-Illustrated Picture Book Published ## 1. Develop Your Manuscript Typically, a picture book has 500 words or fewer and consists of 32 pages. Keep it tight, read it out loud as much as possible, get tested on children. Each page turn must give some kind of reward to the reader - be it a surprise or a funny illustration. Also, keep in mind that illustrations do tell their own stories, and therefore don't describe what is already shown. ## 2. Draw a Storyboard and Dummy Create a series of sketches of all 32 pages (usually 12-14 spreads plus front and back material). Now create a dummy to check how it flows, where the text will go and where it won't. Remember to leave some room for gutters – the place where the center fold may hide something vital. ## 3. Decide Which Way to Go There are two main approaches: self-publication and traditional. **Traditional:** Author illustrators usually submit a full draft of their manuscript with dummy and 2-3 samples of completed illustration. Send queries to literary agents or publishers who accept submissions following their guidelines. It may take a long time and expect rejections. For the information about potential markets check the SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators). **Self-publishing:** You control everything by yourself. You retain creative freedom and better royalties, but you will take care of production, its cost, and promotion. ## 4. Produce Final Artwork (self-publication) Do the work at 300 DPI at least in CMYK or according to the printer's preference. Create a bleed of 0.125" around each page. Choose a standard trim size such as 8.5 x 8.5 inches or 8 x 10 inches. Don't put text and essential elements closer than 0.5 inch to the edge of the page. ## 5. Do the Necessaries - **Editing:** Hire a professional editor or trade with fellow writers. - **Typography:** Choose kid-friendly font and colors that will contrast well. - **ISBN:** Buy your own ISBN on Bowker (US) and register yourself as a publisher. - **Copyright:** Submit your work to the US Copyright Office. ## 6. Choose a Printing Platform Print on demand platforms such as Amazon KDP and IngramSpark don't require inventory and have distribution. If you need a better quality of hardcovers and/or large volume, try offset printing, when the cost decreases with each additional unit. ## 7. Promote Your Book Before the launch, create an author site and email list. Try to contact school librarians, independent bookstores and parenting blogs. Offer readings, classroom presentations and activity printables. Get reviews in advance by sending advance copies to reviewers and consider running a crowdfunding campaign to cover printing expenses and build an audience simultaneously. ## 8. Make More Books Being an illustrator, success in picture books comes when you have a good portfolio. It takes patience and effort, but your illustrated masterpiece is worth all of it!

How to Publish A Self-Illustarted Picture Book 1. Perfect Your Manuscript Picture books generally have 500 words or fewer and are 32 pages long. Draft tight, read padded pages out loud, and test the tale on kid listeners. Each turn of a page, there should be some little bit of surprise or visual payoff. And also remember that your illustrations can tell part of the story, so you should not repeat what already appears in the art. 2. Create a Storyboard and Dummy Sketch all 32 pages (usually 12 to 14 spreads plus front and back matter). Next, you construct a dummy (physical or digital) to examine pacing, typesetting and flow. Give room for gutters: the center fold of the book devours valuable info! 3. Choose Your Publishing Path Traditional publishing: An author-illustrator generally submits a complete ms + dummy and 2 or 3 finished sample illustrations. Submit your work to literary agents or publishers who accept material, and adhere closely to their guidelines. Expect long waits and rejections. The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) is a great place to find markets. Self-publishing — You maintain creative control (and often higher royalties) but need to take care of production, cost and marketing. If you need to get it done faster, or are catering to a niche audience, then this path is for you. 4. Prepare Final Artwork (Self-Publishing) This should be designed at 300 DPI minimum, in CMYK or printer specification color profile. Apply a 0.125-inch bleed around all pages. Decide on a standard trim size (8.5 x 8.5 inches, or 8 X 10 Inches, for example). Leave text and key art ~0.5 inches away from the edges 5. Handle the Details Editing: Employ a children's book editor or barter critiques with fellow writers. Typography: Use child-appropriate fonts and good contrast ISBN: Buy your own via Bowker (US) so you have credit as publisher. Copyright Register work with the U.S. Copyright Office 6. Select a Printing Platform Printing on demand services, such as Amazon KDP or IngramSpark allow you to not have any upfront inventory and are offered internationally. Offset is suitable for bulk orders that come at lower per-unit costs for larger quantities and higher quality hardcovers as well. Proof copy and color accuracy (always order) 7. Market Your Book Do not Launch Your Author Website & Mailing List Just Before Launch CONTACT SCHOOL LIBRARIANS, INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORES AND PARENTING BLOGGERS. Provide reading events, class visits, and printable activities. Get early reviews with advance copies, even run a crowd-funding campaign for printing while building your readership. 8. Keep Creating Building a catalog is often the key to success in picture books. Listen to what sells and reader response, then write your next one. With patience, polish and perseverance your illustrated dream can spread to young readers everywhere.

# How to Publish Your Self-Illustrated Picture Book ## 1. Improve Your Manuscript The majority of picture books contain 500 words or less and consist of 32 pages. You should write concisely, read your text out loud frequently, and get children to read it too. Each time the pages are turned, there should be a little surprise or a visual reward. Keep in mind that your illustrations can convey part of the story, so don't include a description of what is already shown in the pictures. ## 2. Prepare a storyboard and a dummy First make thumbnails of all 32 pages (usually including 12 to 14 spreads as well as the front and back material). Then create a physical or digital dummy in order to check the pacing, the position of the text, and the overall flow. Make sure to leave room for the gutters, as the central fold of the book can cause important details to be lost. ## 3. Select Your Publishing Route In the case of traditional publishing, author-illustrators usually send with their complete manuscript a dummy and also two or three finished sample illustrations. You should query literary agents or publishers who take submissions and make sure that you carefully follow each of their guidelines. Long waiting periods and rejections should be expected. The SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators) is a good source for discovering possible markets. With self-publishing you have full control over your work and enjoy higher royalty payments, but you have to look after the production, the costs and the marketing yourself. This option is appropriate for people who value speed or who have a specialist audience. ## 4. Ready the final artwork (self-publishing) The work should be done at a minimum resolution of 300 DPI using CMYK or the color profile preferred by the printer. Include a 0.125-inch bleed on each page. Select a standard trim size, for example 8.5 by 8.5 inches or 8 by 10 inches. Make sure that all text and important images are at least 0.5 inches away from the edges. ## 5. Attend to the Details – Have a children's book editor employed or exchange your work with other writers. - **Typography:** Choose fonts that are easy for children to read and ensure a high contrast. - **ISBN:** If you want to purchase one, do so via Bowker (in the US) so that your name appears as the publisher's. - **Copyright:** Make sure to register your work with the U.S. Copyright Office. ## 6. Choose a printing platform Since print-on-demand services such as Amazon KDP and IngramSpark do not require an initial inventory and provide wide distribution, they are a good option. When it comes to obtaining higher-quality hardcovers or dealing with bulk orders, offset printing should be considered as it reduces the cost per unit when large quantities are printed. It is important to order a proof copy and verify the colour accuracy. ## 7. Market Your Book Once you finish your book, you need to let people know about it. Start by sharing it with your friends, family, and anyone who might be interested. Use social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to spread the word. You can also build a simple website or blog to talk about your book and share updates. If you have an email list, send a message to your contacts. Think about reaching out to local bookstores or libraries to see if they will carry your book or let you host a reading. Reviews matter, so ask readers to leave honest feedback online. The more you talk about your book, the more people will hear about it. Before launching, set up an author website and create a mailing list. Contact school librarians, independent bookstores, and parenting bloggers. Provide reading events, visit classrooms, and offer activity printables. Get early reviews by sending out advance copies and think about running a crowdfunding campaign to pay for the printing while at the same time building your audience. ## 8. Keep Creating A successful record in the area of picture books is usually achieved by creating a catalog; you should take note of sales figures and reader feedback before beginning your next story. By being patient, refining your work, and staying persistent, your illustrated vision can be enjoyed by young readers all over the world.