5 Steps to Publishing Your First Children's Book

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Seeing your book in print can be a thrilling experience. After taking months, if not longer, to create your story, holding your final copy in your hands is incredibly rewarding. While publishing a book can sound daunting, but the process might be smoother than you'd think. If you have aspirations of becoming a children's book author, you're in luck. Here are five steps you can take to publish your first book.

Study Similar Books

The best way to learn how to craft a story is by studying authors who write in the same area as you. Analyzing the works of others can help you understand the content readers are looking for. It will also help you determine what type of illustrations you want your book to have. From there, you can decide if you're going to illustrate your own story or hire an illustration artist to do it for you.

Create Your Story

There are two parts to creating a story: the plot and the characters.

Plot

If you use a storyboard to sketch out your plot, you might have an easier time once it comes time to sit down and write. 

Characters

Some of the most beloved characters in children's books are the ones with the most personality. Take time to create characters who are relatable and fun for your readers.

Ask For Feedback

Once your story is written and you've chosen your artwork, it's time to ask for feedback. Feedback from others can help you identify aspects of your story that might need to be tweaked a bit.

Choose a Style

Before you press that "publish" button, decide what type of book you want. You can choose from hardback, paperback, and ebook. Which you choose will depend on your audience.

Publish

If you want to self-publish, there are several options to doing so. Or, if you're going to publish traditionally, there are resources available to show you how.

Publishing a book might sound scary, but it doesn't have to be. With the proper guidance, knowledge, and plan, you can have your book in readers' hands in no time.