Out of my Element...

[ScottAJohnson]

I'm a traditionally published horror novelist, but I have this (I think) great idea for an illustrated children's book. However, I'm clueless as to how to begin shopping it around. A few questions for those in the know, if you don't mind...

1) When subing to publishers/agents, should you have all artwork done already?
2) How close to a "finished layout" should you have? I mean, if parts of the story correspond to certain pictures, do you present said parts on the picture pages, or do you insert a notation (see picture #13) in the prose?
3) Any other advice you could give would be helpful. As I said, I'm completely lost as to how to do this process.

Thanks

[batyler65]

I can't speak from personal experience on this, but I have done a fair bit of research into submitting picture books.

First of all, I would strongly recommend getting the writer's guidelines from any publisher you plan to pitch. Many of them have very specific things the want to see. Many are also available on the internet if you do a little google sleuthing.

Here's what I have learned. In general, you don't include illustrations at all. Most publishers prefer to match authors with illustrators themselves.

If you are also an artist and intend to do the finished illustrations yourself, I'd query the publisher first and ask how they would prefer to see them.

Hope this provides some help.

Barb

[underthecity]

I echo batyler's comments. I, too, am working on a children's book (shameless plug: check out the Share Your Work forum in the Children's section titled WWWII Era Children's Book Sample). My original idea was to write a picture book, but it grew into a chapter book.

In doing prelim research for the picture book, I discovered that on average children's picture books are approximately 1,500 words. They also have an average page count of 25-30. Check out the children's section of the bookstore and you'll see what I mean. I also know that publishers do not want to see illustrations; they have their own artists and will match your work with one.

I spoke to a local children's author whose work I admire (one of her books is called Paperboy (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0395644828)) and she told me to just write the story at about 1,500 words. Make every word count; there is no room for fluff. After I started writing my story, I realized it would have to be longer than 1,500 words, hence, it became a chapter book.

I am not a children's book expert, but there are some on these boards who are. Write your story and make it awesome. Once it's accepted, then talk to the publisher about illustrations and where you think they should go.

That's what I know.

allen

[PrettySpecialGal]

I'd have to agree with Barb- get those writers' guidelines and REALLY research the specific markets for similar books. I'm currently seeking a publisher myself (fingers crossed) and it seems that once a house decides the specifics of what they will publish- there's no changing their minds.

There are a few children's horror books out there- even Christmas horror- if this is the style for your new book. Take a look for those (ex: SANTA'S TWIN by Dean Koontz) and look at their publishing houses.

Good luck-