You’ve got a story kids will love. But how do you actually publish a children’s story book?
Maybe you’re stuck wondering:
- “Do I need an illustrator?”
- “Should I self-publish or chase a traditional deal?”
- “How do I even start marketing this thing?”
I’ve been there. Let’s cut through the noise and break down how to publish a children’s book step by step.
1. Nail Your Story First (Because Great Books Start Here)
“My story’s good… but is it good enough?”
Here’s the truth: kids’ books have rules. Break these, and agents/publishers toss your manuscript faster than broccoli at a toddler’s dinner plate.
A. Know Your Audience
- Ages 0–5: Think “Goodnight Moon.” Short, rhythmic, 500 words max.
- Ages 5–7: Early readers love repetition. “Frog and Toad” vibes. Keep it under 5k words.
- Ages 8–12: Chapter books with heart. “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” energy. 20k–50k words.
B. Test Your Story
Read it to kids. Watch their faces. If they ask for it again? You’re golden. If they wander off to play Legos? Revise.
Pro Tip: Use ChatGPT to generate 10 title ideas. Pick the one that feels fun (e.g., “The Day My Dog Became a Ninja” > “Billy’s Adventure”).
2. Illustrations: The Make-or-Break Factor
“I can’t draw. Now what?”
Most first-time authors panic here. Let’s simplify:
Option 1: Hire a Pro
- Cost: 500–500–5k. Use Fiverr or Upwork. Look for portfolios with kid-friendly styles (bright colors, expressive faces).
- Pro Tip: Agree on 1–2 sample pages before paying full price.
Option 2: AI Art (Yes, Seriously)
Tools like Midjourney v6 can create decent mockups. But refine them in Canva or Photoshop to avoid the “uncanny valley” effect.
Option 3: Traditional Publishers Handle It
If you’re querying agents, don’t attach art unless you’re a pro. They’ll pair you with their illustrators.
3. Traditional vs. Self-Publishing: Pick Your Path
“Which route makes sense for ME?”
Let’s break it down:
A. Traditional Publishing
- Pros: No upfront costs. Access to editors, illustrators, bookstores.
- Cons: Takes 2+ years. Royalties are 5–20%.
- How to Submit:
- Find agents on QueryTracker.
- Pitch with a hook: “My book is ‘Dragons Love Tacos’ meets climate activism.”
B. Self-Publishing
- Pros: Publish in 3 months. Keep 50–70% royalties.
- Cons: You handle everything (editing, marketing, etc.).
- Platforms: Amazon KDP (easy), IngramSpark (bookstores).
Hybrid Publishing? Most are scams. Avoid companies asking for $10k upfront.
4. Legal Stuff You Can’t Ignore
“Do I really need an ISBN?”
Yes. Buy one from Bowker (125for1,125for1,295 for 10). It’s your book’s fingerprint.
Copyright: File online ($45). Protects your story from copycats.
AI Disclosure: If you used AI art, say so. Amazon won’t care… but readers might.
5. Launching Your Book Like a Pro
“What if nobody buys it?”
Marketing is everything. Here’s how to start:
A. Amazon SEO
- Title: “How the Crayons Saved the Rainforest: A Kids’ Book About Recycling” (keywords + flair).
- Description: Use phrases parents search: “bedtime story,” “diverse characters,” “STEM themes.”
B. Social Media
- TikTok: Film your kid reacting to the book. Hashtag #ChildrensBookTok.
- Instagram: Partner with mom bloggers. Send free copies for reviews.
C. Local Hustle
- Host readings at libraries (free).
- Sell copies at farmers’ markets (parents love impulse buys).
6. FAQs (What Every New Author Asks)
Q: “How much does it cost to publish?”
- Self-publishing: 1k–1k–7k (editing, art, marketing).
- Traditional: $0 (they pay you).
Q: “Can I publish without an agent?”
Yes, but agents open doors to big publishers like Scholastic.
Q: “What’s the biggest mistake to avoid?”
Rushing. Edit 3 times. Test with kids. Then publish.
Final Tip: Write the Book YOU Needed as a Kid
Kids’ books aren’t just stories—they’re doorways to empathy, courage, and wonder.
Now go make something magical.
Need More Help? Grab my free checklist: “7 Steps to Publish Your Children’s Book”.
