Contributed by Karen Cioffi, Children's Writer
I read an interesting article from a reputable self-publishing service (1106 Design). The article explains that the best way to produce a children's picture book is to create the interior layout before getting the illustrations done.
This is something I hadn't thought of. But it makes so much sense.
I write a lot of stories for clients, and in the past, that was usually the end of my involvement. That is aside from providing my clients with the names of two or three illustrators and book designers to work with after they have completed manuscripts. But I usually didn’t go beyond that.
I provide the list because most people new to the writing arena aren't aware of the next steps. They need help.
I’ve since created a self-publishing service for my clients because I know they need help, and I know how many scammers are out there.
So, here are the next steps once you have a completed manuscript, whether you wrote it yourself or had it ghostwritten.
THE DIY BEGINNING
Start with the Story
The first step to self-publishing a picture book is having a finished manuscript.
Once that's done, the author hires an illustrator who creates the interior illustrations, and usually the front and back covers.
How Many Illustrations, What Size, and the Layout
At this point, the author needs to discuss with the illustrator how the book is to be laid out.
Does the author want an illustration on each page? On every other page?
Keep in mind that having an illustration on every other page cuts the number of interior illustrations needed in half. This cuts the cost of interior illustrations in half. It’s a huge factor, and the decision is usually based on the author’s budget.
Once that's decided, the illustrator and author decide if full-page, half-page, quarter-page, or spot illustrations should be used, or a combination. Keep in mind that the type of illustration determines the cost.
The article I mentioned earlier notes that it's best to let the illustrator lay out the pages for the text and illustrations. It creates a much more professional and engaging finished product.
If you look at books like “The Berenstain Bears”, "D.W. The Picky Eater" by Marc Brown, or even “Sophia Mouse” (a simple chapter book), the text can be anywhere on the page. But it needs to work with the illustrations.
You want to be able to easily read the text.
This is why your illustrator needs a copy of the manuscript to create the layout before creating the illustrations. This way, the illustrations fit the space allotted to them.
A great way for you to determine how you want your picture book to look is to do some research. Find books that you like and let your illustrator know what look you'd like to go for.
So, when going into this, find out whether the illustrator inputs the text.
I work with an illustrator who doesn’t even input the cover text.
Know what you’re getting into.
If the illustrator doesn’t input the text, you will need to request that he ensure he leaves enough room for it.
This goes for chapter books as well.
Your Illustrations are Done
Once the illustrations are done, the illustrator will give you a PDF file or the individual illustrations, including the cover. You will send everything, including the manuscript, to the book designer/formatter.
The book designer will put it together. You will, however, need to explain which illustration goes on which page and where on the page. A good formatter will know what to do.
When done, the book formatter or designer will give you print-ready files for ebook and print upload to sites like Amazon (retailer and distributor), IngramSpark (aggregator), or whatever retailer or book distributor you intend to use.
This is the Do-It-Yourself way.
AN ALTERNATIVE
If the above seems like too much work, you do have an option: hire a self-publishing company to do it all for you.
Before I go on, picture RED FLAGS here.
There are A LOT of companies out there that just want your money. And every year, they’re getting more devious. So, BUYER BEWARE.
Research, research, research self-publishing companies before handing over your money.
Once you find a reputable company, they will take your manuscript and illustrations and put the book together for you.
Some of these companies even offer illustrations, making your life easier.
Just be sure the self-publishing company handles children's picture books. This is very important. And make sure the illustrators they hire are experienced.
One reputable company is 1106 Design. Just keep in mind that the convenience comes at a price.
If you're a children's author and have a picture book or simple chapter book, a reasonably priced option is Writers on the Move Self-Publishing Service.
AGAIN, be careful.
To read the 1106 Design article, click the link: https://www.1106design.com/2017/01/25/want-to-publish-a-beautiful-childrens-book-heres-how
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Karen Cioffi is an award-winning children’s author, working ghostwriter, rewriter, and coach. If you’d like to learn more about writing for children or need help with your story, visit Writing for Children with Karen Cioffi.
You can check out Karen’s books HERE.
Connect with Karen on SOCIAL MEDIA.
