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Prepping for Picture Book Month: Research, Draft, Polish, Submit

Emma Walton Hamilton / Uncategorized  / Prepping for Picture Book Month: Research, Draft, Polish, Submit
A November calendar on a desk with books, leaves, and a pen, showing tasks: Draft, Read, Revise, and Submit written on different weeks.
Oct 28, 2025
in Uncategorized
by Emma Walton Hamilton
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Prepping for Picture Book Month: Research, Draft, Polish, Submit

November is National Picture Book Month—a time to celebrate the format, share your favorites, and lean into all the discussions and recommendations generated by libraries, bookstores, and book bloggers worldwide, many of whom run read-alouds, giveaways, and author discussions throughout the month.

If you want to make the most of it, October is the time to prepare.

Whether your goal is to write something new, polish an existing manuscript, or get ready to query, here’s a plan to help you hit the ground running.

4-Part Plan for a Powerful November

1. Research & Get Inspired

Before you dive into drafting or revising, immerse yourself in the picture book world:

  • Read widely: Visit your local library or bookstore and check out recent picture books. Pay attention to voice, structure, pacing, and emotional arc.

  • Celebrate Picture Book Month: Follow libraries, educators, and bookstores using the #PictureBookMonth hashtag. Many share curated reading lists, themed storytimes, or featured titles daily throughout November.

  • Join Children’s Book Week (Nov 3–9): Explore resources from Every Child a Reader and connect with others celebrating children’s literature.

  • Create your own mini challenge: Kickstart your own November Idea-a-Day habit to build your picture book idea bank.

  • Follow illustrators and museums: The Eric Carle Museum and others often host November exhibitions and events that can inspire both writers and artists.

2. Draft Something New

Use all that inspiration to write a fresh manuscript—or take an old idea in a new direction. Challenge yourself to complete at least one solid first draft this month.

Tip: Create a writing schedule and add it to your calendar (weekly goals work better than daily for many)

3. Polish Something Old

Revision is where the magic happens. Choose one manuscript that’s close but not quite ready. Focus on:

  • Page turns and pacing

  • Word count and clarity

  • Emotional resonance and read-aloud flow

4. Submit with Intention

If you have a polished manuscript ready to go, plan your submission strategy:

  • Research agents or editors accepting submissions

  • Double-check formatting and guidelines

  • Personalize your query with care

And remember—submitting a manuscript is a victory in itself. Celebrate the act of putting your work out there!

November is a celebration of picture books—but it can also be a turning point in your creative journey. By showing up for your work in intentional ways, you align with the spirit of the season: curiosity, courage, and craft.

Need help navigating the submission process? Check out The Complete Picture Book Submissions System and sign up for the Picture Book Publishing Roadmap free training.
Emma Walton Hamilton
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