How to Write and Illustrate Children's Books

by Felicity Trotman

What is the magic ingredient that makes a children's book a well-read favorite - the kind of classic which is loved for centuries the world over? It is not so much a magic ingredient, nor even a secret formula, but a sympathetic understanding of what is enjoyable and an appreciation of the qualities that make a children's book a winner. All this and more is distilled in How to Write and Illustrate Children's Books. Written by experts, it explains for the first time how to bring the necessary qualities of freshness and vitality to text and pictures. Here is an analysis of successful fiction and nonfiction for the 2-11 age group, books that are perfect for sharing and reading aloud or for young children to enjoy themselves, over and over again. Picture books, story books, fad books, reference and educational works are covered. Myths and pitfalls are exploded, trends assessed and many of the old classics examined. Written in a lively, informative style, aspiring authors and illustrators can find out how to get started; the best way to develop an idea; and how to present the work successfully to a publisher. The book also explains how to fulfill a comission and teaches an essential understanding of the printing processes involved. A vital reference work for children's writers and illustrators whether they are starting out or already on their way to being published.

Genres: Writing, Nonfiction, Reference, Art

144 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1988

Reviews

[Alice · Rating 3 out of 5]

A little dated now - advises using a typewriter rather than submitting a handwritten manuscript! - but most of the points made are still valid and useful today. I'm not an illustrator so it was interesting to see how their journey, and that of an author/illustrator, differs from the plain old author's.

[J · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book for those wishing to know more about the field or not knowing where to start. When you get serious, you'll want to read some additional books on working with the publishing world. From what I've understood, very few agents will touch children's books. So, you'll likely be going it alone up until you really get established, if you do. That means you will be working directly with the publisher/editor yourself. As a result, you will need more information under your belt about the publishing world than what this book contains, but this is an excellent source to learn about everything else. It does include some starter info about the publishing end of things.

[Diana · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a helpful guide for those interested in children's illustration. There's some publishing information to help get you started. Plus, there's a section on classic children's fiction, along with all the various types of picture books. The technique and production of making a book is quite informative, too. I discovered some valuable tips on getting to know your reader, choosing the right words and using your imagination in combining pictures with interpreting the text. This book was published in the 80s and it's a bit outdated in today's publishing world but I found some treasures here in telling a story with pictures to be quite helpful.

[Angela · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn't know how to rate this book because I haven't any other source to compare it to. Nor do I have the experience to even know if what is said and suggested in the book is truthful, helpful, or valuable. Thus, I just gave it three stars. A middle of the road rating. Until I can rate it more honestly it'll have to do. I think that overall, it was easy to navigate and follow. The advice and example seem saliable enough. So I liked it overall, especially for my first introduction and tutorial on Children's Book writing. Onto to Writing Children's Books for Dummies next.

[Miranda Churchill · Rating 1 out of 5]

Outdated and old-fashioned. Some small nuggets of wisdom for the aspiring children's book author/illustrator here and there, but these same pieces of advice can be found in better sources.
Overall, not worth the time and effort of a read.

[Sam · Rating 3 out of 5]

Outdated

[Diane Ramirez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This books is packed with information. Even though I've read it, this book is one of those you use over and over as a reference book.

[Debbie Hoskins]

This was recommended by quality published children book illustrators.

[Sheri Hathaway · Rating 5 out of 5]

The somewhat outdated bits don't take away from the other mass of good advice. Very comprehensive and solid. I was at first fooled by the kiddy cover. It's a serious work.