Laurie Wallmark's Blog, page 4

Picture Book Word Counts

 What's the rule about word counts for picture books and can it be broken?

https://www.highlightsfoundation.org/2019/04/08/picture-book-word-count-and-other-rules-meant-to-be-broken/

Unsolicited Manuscripts

 Here's a list of publisher who don't require you have an agent to submit your manuscript.

https://thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com/submit-childrens-book-without-agent/

Scene Endings

 Here are five ways to end a scene.

https://www.helpingwritersbecomeauthors.com/types-of-scene-endings/

Picture Book Pacing

 Pacing is what separates a flat picture book from a story that practically reads itself out loud.

https://katiedavis.com/blog/craft-and-writing/what-i-wish-everyone-knew-about-picture-book-pacing/

Authentic Characters

 Authentic characters act like real people.

https://writersinthestormblog.com/2025/07/the-key-to-writing-authentic-characters/

Setting

 How do you amp up your story's setting?

https://writershelpingwriters.net/2025/07/amp-up-your-story-setting/

Author Platform

 What is an author platform and how do you create one?

https://janefriedman.com/author-platform-definition/

Chapter 1

 What should be in the first chapter of your novel?

https://nathanbransford.com/blog/2025/07/where-to-start-chapter-1-in-a-novel

Picture Book Pagination

 Should you paginate your picture book manuscript in your submission?

https://debbieohi.com/2022/06/pagination/

Unexpected Characters

 How do you create characters who aren't perfect and kids find relatable.

https://katiedavis.com/blog/craft-and-writing/the-unexpected-hero-how-to-create-main-characters-kids-want-to-cheer-for/