Reading is a fundamental aspect of a child’s development, and as an aspiring children’s book author, you’d want your first full-length book to bring valuable lessons that kids can pick up on. Reading up on references like “Who’s Knocking at My Door?”, a children’s storybook by Stadler, can help you start.
Children are super dedicated readers and turn to books for recreational and educational purposes. Even so, writing a good children’s book won’t be easy, especially if you’re a beginner. If you’re planning to write your own children’s book, read along to help yourself gain basic knowledge.
1 – Scout For Ideas That Are Relevant To Children
Expect that there are no specific formulas to becoming a best-selling author in the children’s book category. Aside from the plot’s potential, you have to satisfy two types of audiences: children and their parents. But despite the latter doing the buying, it’s the kids who will eventually do the approving. After all, they are the target audience and will be the ones who will treasure these books as they grow up. So as a budding author, stay in the course and keep the children in mind as you write.
2 – Find Ways To Make The Universal Theme Creative
Children’s books are typically exaggerated, full of fantasy, original, and detail-oriented. However, you start to uncover some hidden meaning and symbolism if you observe them behind all the glittery visuals.
These are the following themes explored a lot by authors:
- The importance of open-mindedness
- Being kind to one another
- Building platonic love, like friendships
A good children’s book stays grounded on those ideals because they are lessons children can connect with. It wouldn’t be wise to call it a common mistake, but most misconceptions around writing children’s books are that everything should be cute and comical. Little did they know that in the minds of a child, they want to be a hero, someone who takes action on specific issues and makes decisions that impact their lives.
3 – Make Sure That Your Ideas Are Age-Appropriate
Before you begin writing your first children’s book and solidifying your ideas for the plot, consider the following questions:
- What is your purpose for writing this story?
- What is your course of action?
- Will this story successfully connect with children?
- Is this story one of a kind and easy to understand?
When you have difficulty dealing with what you should write, recall your childhood and see if you remember anything you used to love reading at that young age. You can even ask the kids themselves which are the best people to consult with if you don’t know how appropriate your story will be. They might be more enthusiastic about exchanging ideas, so don’t hold back and converse with them as you like. Be all-ears with any potential ideas as you venture into children’s storytelling.
4 – Be Particular About The Age Group You Want To Market Your Story
Knowing your target audience is an essential thing a children’s author should know. Many may think the range is purely linear because it’s a children’s genre. A wise author should understand that no single plotline caters to all age groups. From baby board books to teen novels, there should be in-depth research on which genre belongs to the suitable age range. But it would be best if you didn’t stop there. Think about what those readers will anticipate and the majority preferences, like topic, style, and length. These aspects are essential to consider for you to market your book well.
5 – Write In A Tone That Doesn’t Sound Condescending
Children’s books are generally set in a friendly tone, but there might be slip-ups where the choice of words reflects a stronger voice. It might end up being too authoritative, both figuratively and literally, since these books are also read aloud in front of children. Be patient and, simultaneously, diligent in practicing your craft, especially in how you tone out your storyline to avoid it being far from an ideal children’s book. Be thorough in examining your words and applying the right strength that would still appeal to kids as they both read and listen.
Alex Writes 