Like all my colleagues in the children's book field,
prospective authors and illustrators frequently
contact me. Wanting to know everything from how
to find an illustrator for their story to critiquing their
manuscript to naming someone at a publishing house
to whom a manuscript might be sent.
Not wanting to be unkind or seem ungracious, but
needing time for my own work, I thought it might
help to answer some of the most often
asked questions.
1. If you have written a story but have no intention
of illustrating it as well, do not worry. If a publisher
is interested they know where to find Illustrators.
Illustrators provide samples of their work through
agents, websites, blogs, professional "catalogs"
and professional networking. Just follow the
submission policies of the particular publisher and
send a copy of your story with the appropriate cover
letter. If accepted an Illustrator will be provided.
This system also protects the illustrator as they and
the author will each have a contract.
2. All children's book publishers maintain webites
where you can learn about what sort of books they
publish and how to submit your story and whether
or not they accept unsolicited manuscripts.
3. Just because someone knows someone who works
in the field does not mean they have any ability to help
you "jump the queue". Chances are, they will refer you
to children's book publishing web sites like The Purple
Crayon http://www.underdown.org/ or books like
Children's Writers and Illustrators Market
http://www.cwim.com/ There is no magic "key" to
getting a manuscript accepted. Even authors with
previously published books may have a manuscript
rejected. That doesn't necessarily mean that it won't
be accepted elsewhere.
4. Even in a prosperous year, publishers accept anywhere
from a tiny number of unsolicited manuscripts to none.
Again, check the particular "house" policies on their websites.
5. Asking a published illustrator or author to review and
or critique your work is a time consuming task and may
be an imposition. Some are willing to do this for a fee
and you should look to see if this service is mentioned
on their website or blog. Just remember that they cannot
guarantee acceptance of your work nor can you use
their name without permission as part of your submission.
6. In my experience, books get accepted when the stars and
planets are in alignment. To be honest, there are instances
when even accepted books are canceled. Sometimes for
unknown reasons. It is important that you do your
"homework" and understand that publishing is after all a
business, driven these days primarily by marketing
concerns.
I hope this has been useful.
Please, leave a comment if you have an additional question
or comment regarding this subject.
However, I am not reviewing individual manuscripts
or portfolios at this time.
