Do you want to write a children’s book?

Resources for writing children’s books

Do you want to write a children’s book?  Of course you do.  Do your homework first, though and make sure you’ve figured out all the nuts and bolts before you begin. We’ve gathered some of the best sites and resources that offer inspiration and guidance.

1. This lovely site prompts you to think why you want to write a children’s book. And helps you be clear on what you want to write about.

2. Author Debbie Ridpath Ohi (that’s her work below) is one of our favourite authors and her generosity in sharing resources is legendary.  Check out her book layout templates and notes here.

3. Author of Daddy, I Can’t Sleep, Alan Durant has a simple break down of how to get started. He also offers courses online.

4. Journey to Kidlit have a free template to download with an overview of How to Write A Children’s Book.

5. Join the South African branch of the Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI SA) and attend workshops, talks and more. Note membership is pricey, as it is in dollars, but worth it if you are seriously pursuing a writing career.

6. Imagnary House is a South African publisher celebrating unique and creative stories from local writers.  They have a self-publishing division as well as an open period for submissions. 

7. Pan Macmillan South Africa have some useful notes and resources on writing and publishing.  They are not currently accepting submissions, but keep checking in on them.

8. Penguin Random House South Africa have a submissions outline of books they will consider.

9. Kokila – a subdivision of Penguin Books, looks for stories from marginalised communities around the world.

10. Jacana Media publish a great range of local children’s books. Find out about their submissions here.

11. NB Publishers have a wide range of local children’s books in all languges. Find their submissions here.

12. Ingram Spark offer some good advice when it comes to marketing your book.

13. QuickFox Publishing are reputable publishers in South Africa, should you decide to go the self-publishing route.

14. Exclusive Books have a few tips for authors looking to get published in South Africa.

15. Listen to podcasts about how to write children’s books. It’s best hearing from other author’s about what works for them. We like Writing for Children by the Institute for Writers and here’s a great list of podcasts recommended by the SCBWI.

Good luck and have fun!

 

Debbie Ridpath Ohi Resources

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