If writing a picture book is something you'd like to try
then take a look at the following tips which will hopefully help you on your
way.
One:
As you write try to think visually. Attempt to ensure every
page can be illustrated with a different scene or picture. This will allow the
illustrator to 'play' with your words and create a book that is visually
pleasing as well as exciting to read.
Two:
Break your story down into sections and ensure you have a
strong start, middle and end. If your character doesn't go on a journey
(physical or emotional) why will the reader want to turn to the next page?
Three:
A picture book is a mixture of words and images. So you
don't have to include great chunks of description. If it's important your
character looks a certain way or they are carrying something then add notes for the
illustrator. As the saying goes a picture can say a thousand words. So let the
pictures tell half the story whilst your words tell the other half.
Four:
Picture books are written to be read out aloud. So when it
comes to editing do just this. Stand up and read your words out. Then edit as needed.
Five:
If you want to get your book published remember publishers
want to sell worldwide. So you have to think globally. For example in my first
picture book (A Book For Bramble) I'd mentioned Guy Fawkes Night. Now every
child in the UK knows what this celebration is but children from other parts of
the world will not. I therefore had to find an alternate celebration. So thinking globally will make your book more viable to a
publisher.
I hope these tips have helped. Now find some paper and a pen
and get writing!
I have three new distance learning courses commencing in September via Women On Writing:
