I wrote a children’s picture book and am in the process of finding a literary agent which can be a tedious process. I recommend purchasing the 2011 Children’s Writer’s And Illustrator’s Market
book or getting it from your library. If you don’t want to wait to hear from literary agents (can take up to 12-weeks), publish a “print on demand” book.
I thought about self-publishing my picture book but decided to query a few agents in order to go through the process. I’ll keep you posted and let you know what happens. I think it’s a great experience for new writers to go through. You’ll discover how the publishing industry works, and learn a lot about business and sales and marketing.
The publishing industry isn’t that same as it was in the 20th century or previous centuries. Some agents recommend that you self-publish your book before you contact them. Why? This gives them the opportunity to see your numbers. That’s right, publishing is a numbers game! Remember, you don’t have to be the “best writer” to be a #1 Best Selling Writer. Robert Kiyosaki, author of Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money-That the Poor and the Middle Class Do Not!
and other “Rich Dad” books, tells people he’s not the best writer but he’s a “#1 Best Selling Author.” This is the key. If you have a great idea that’s marketable, agents will want to speak to you!
You may think you can’t self-publish a book but it’s easier than you think. Amazon.com’s BookSurge (becoming CreateSpace) is their print on demand company. They offer writers more flexibility with royalties and list prices and offer writers a free online community to network with each other. The possibilities are endless!
I haven’t ruled out self-publishing my children’s picture book. But, I would need to find an illustrator that I trust to capture the essence of my story. My book has a ‘moral’ twist to it but it’s a subtle one. With all the bullying that’s happening in the world, I wanted to make sure my book entertains and educates at the same time.
Remember that writers get published every day. Heck celebrities have books published every day thanks to ghostwriters. It’s not as impossible as it may seem. If you have a great idea that you’re dying to write, open your laptop and start typing. Your print on demand book could lead you to places you never thought you’d go!
Rebecca
Did you write a “print on demand” book? Share.