From Theme to Story: Turning Abstract Ideas into Specific Stories
Themes are the big ideas that give stories depth and meaning...
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The Perennial Appeal of Holiday-Themed Picture Books
Year after year, holiday-themed picture books find their way into the hands of young readers – and they rarely lose their appeal. These books bring families together, mark seasonal traditions, and bring warmth and wonder to every holiday season. But beyond simply being festive and...
Read MoreWhy Self-Publishing May Not Be the Best Choice for Picture Books
Self-publishing has grown enormously over the past decade, offering authors the ability to bypass traditional publishing gatekeepers and reach readers directly. For many types of books, this can be an empowering and viable path. But when it comes to picture books, the challenges of self-publishing...
Read MoreStrengthen Your Story with Concrete Nouns
In linguistics, "concrete nouns" refer to physical, tangible objects—things that can be perceived through the senses, such as "apple," "dog," or "mountain." Intangible concepts, such as "freedom," "love," or "curiosity" are referred to as “abstract nouns.” Poetry and creative writing often emphasize concrete nouns because...
Read MoreEnliven Your Writing with Juicy Verbs
When we read a book that pulls us right into the story, that sweeps us along with vivid energy and emotional clarity, we’re often witnessing the magic of verbs in action. Strong, juicy verbs – the kind that make us feel, hear, and see what’s...
Read MoreRead-Aloudability: Ensuring Your Picture Book Sings When Read
Picture books are intended to be read aloud to or with the child, so it’s essential to ensure your manuscript sounds as good as it looks. Even though they are often still enjoyed by independent readers, picture books are designed to engage the young child...
Read MoreThe Importance of Consistency in Picture Books
Writing a picture book is a delightful yet challenging endeavor. One of the key aspects that can make or break your manuscript is maintaining consistency in tone, style, and character. These elements are crucial for creating a cohesive and engaging story. So, let's dive into...
Read MoreTop 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Writing Picture Books
Hello, fellow writers! When it comes to crafting picture books, there are some common pitfalls that can trip up even the most experienced authors. By being aware of these mistakes, you can sidestep them and create a manuscript that truly shines. Let's dive into the...
Read MoreHow Many Pages are in a Children’s Book?
One of the questions I get asked most frequently is how long a typical children's book should be. The answer varies depending on the age range and genre, but there are some industry standards to keep in mind. Let's break it down by category. Picture Books For...
Read MoreDialogue in Picture Books: An Editor’s Perspective
Hello, writers! Dialogue is a powerful tool in picture books, bringing characters to life and advancing the plot. Here are some tips from an editor’s perspective on creating engaging dialogue for your picture book. Keep it Natural - Aim for dialogue that sounds natural and...
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