It is said that writing a picture book is the equivalent of writing War and Peace in five hundred words. Never has a truer word been spoken. The art of telling a good story in very few words is not as easy as it sounds.
Getting help with your story.
So, you have written a picture book. That is excellent news. So many people talk about writing and never get around to it. Well done for taking that first brave step.
Perhaps you have shared it with your partner, parents, children or grandchildren. They love it so you want to send it off in a nice package to a publisher and with any luck your new fortune will roll in. Here's the bad news. It doesn't quite work like that. I don't want to discourage you, you are heading in the right direction but sadly when we read our clever words to those who love us they love it as well. This doesn't mean it's bad or there isn't hope but we don't send our car to our best friend to fix it because they like us (unless of course they actually know what they are doing) so it is the same with publishing. We need professional help, especially at the beginning. Before you rush with your heart in a large envelope and kiss it goodbye at the post box it pays to have it critiqued by an experienced writer or assessor. Christina is available for constructive critiques of your work. Please, be aware that rhyming stories are very hard to write properly, read it out aloud first, get someone else to read it to you. Very few people can manage writing in rhyme. Also, publishers are not interested in stories of pets or loved ones that have died, family celebrations etc., unless they have a very unique and new twist to how they are written. As sad or happy as these event are, they get hundreds of manuscripts about these topics and few ever make it to publication. Consider whether your story has universal appeal or is it just suitable for your family and friends. |
How much does it cost?
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