A picture book is a unique form of storytelling in which text and illustrations work together to tell a story. These books are particularly for children. They use pictures to portray meaning and make unforgettable experiences that only words cannot. Images play an important role, especially for new kids who want to learn to read.
If you’re a great storyteller but don’t know how to illustrate, relax. You don’t need to be an illustrator to write a picture book. All you need to do is write a compelling story and offer clear illustrator notes to help editors or agents visualize. This helps them to know how illustrations will support your story.
In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about picture books. Let’s begin with all the important details you need to know about it.
Types of Picture Books
Before learning about the writing procedure, it is necessary to understand the difference between the two primary types of books. Both of these types are targeted at young readers. Both of these types are for serving different purposes in developing a child’s literacy. However, one thing is in common which is the role of the kids book illustration in London or wherever the creative process takes place.
1. Board Books
Age: 03
Word Count: 0-100 words
Format: Durable, chew-resistant pages
Examples: Pat the Bunny, Dada, Peekaboo Who
- Board books are usually very simple and designed for toddlers and babies.
- They are made with thick cardboard pages that can resist rough handling.
- They focus on basic concepts like colors, shapes, and body parts.
- At this age, there is no complex story plotting.
- A good example could be a story that may just focus on “Billy’s Belly” to teach body parts.
Note: Board books are not for school sale, so if you are targeting the educational sector, then a picture book would be a better choice.
2. Picture Books
Age: 3-8
Word Count: 250-1000 words (ideal is under 500)
Format: 32 pages, with illustrations on every page
Examples: The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Where the Wild Things Are
- Picture books are more complex than board books.
- They usually feature a storyline with a starting, middle, and end.
- The main character is usually a young child or an animal, and the story turns around a problem that the characters need to solve.
- Make sure that no adult help is required to solve the problem.
- The illustration not only helps the text but also helps build the story by showing actions, emotions, and the setting.
Important Elements of Writing a Picture Book
Writing a picture book may seem simple because of its short length, but it is a highly particular art form. The key elements are:
1. The Main Character’s Journey
The core of a picture book is the main character and their journey. Most picture books center on a simple problem that the main character has to solve without adult or secondary characters swooping in to help. This helps teach children the value of independence, problem-solving, and resilience.
- The character should have a clear goal and face problems along the way.
- The problem could be a personal issue or any external challenge.
- The resolution must come from the character’s own decisions or actions.
2. Simple Story Structure
Even though the word count is limited, picture books follow a simple structure that keeps the story engaging and is easy to follow. Here is a typical layout:
- Hook: Capture the reader’s attention quickly. The starting sentences should set the tone and create curiosity among readers.
- Problem: Present a conflict or challenge the main character should overcome.
- Journey: Show the character’s efforts to solve the problem, usually with some setbacks.
- Resolution: Wrap up with a satisfying conclusion where the character solves the problem logically.
Creating the structure can help guide your writing and make sure your story stays focused.
How to Write a Picture Book
Picture books are specific crafts, not just short stories. Here we have mentioned the best approach to writing:
1. Learn from Published Books
One of the best ways to learn how to write a picture book is by reading broadly. Study books that are currently being published and successful. Look for trends in what types of characters and stories are resonating with both children and publishers.
- What themes do famous books have?
- How do authors develop the main character?
- What type of language is used?
Understanding these factors will help you shape your story in a way that attracts the target audience.
2. Understand the Theme
Picture books usually fall into particular themes or categories. Knowing what type of book you are writing will help improve your approach. Some common types of picture book themes include:
- Concept Books: These books teach basic concepts like numbers, letters, shapes, or colors.
- Journey Books: These involve a character going on a physical or emotional journey.
- Comparison Books: These explore similarities or differences, such as “Big vs. Small” or “Day vs. Night.”
It is important to decide the category when writing a picture book. This will assist you to recognize what your book requires in terms of structure, pacing, and visual elements.
3. Character Development
The main character’s growth is usually the heart of the story. Even in 500 words or less, the character should change or learn something valuable. This might be something simple, like learning to share, overcoming fear, or discovering the importance of honesty.
Some common character traits include:
- Being bold and brave, and fighting to overcome fear.
- Learning to work independently, with others, or solving a problem.
- Understanding emotions like sadness and anger and how to cope with them.
Ensure that the character’s journey is relatable and meaningful to kids.
Common Techniques and Layout of Picture Book
A typical picture book has a format of 32 pages, but the content depends on the narrative needs and the illustrator’s style. The layout should complement the story, giving space for the illustration to shine. The illustrators who create pictures for children’s books are sometimes inspired by styles used in game illustration in the UK. In games, the art is usually full of bright colors and action, which works well in children’s books.
| Aspect | Details |
| Theme | What is the central idea or message? Concept, journey, comparison? |
| Character Arc | Does the character change? How do they solve their problem? |
| Repetition | Many picture books use repetition for rhythm and engagement. |
| Ending | Most picture books end on a hopeful or positive note. |
Frequently Asked Questions!
1. How do you turn a story into a picture book?
Turning a story into a picture book involves a few key steps:
– Set a goal for your book.
– Outline your book.
– Write the story.
– Create the illustrations.
– Pick a catchy title.
– Publish your book.
– Test your book.
– Market your book.
2. How do you come up with a picture book idea?
To come up with a picture book idea, begin by thinking about what children love. If you have kids, pay attention to what they say, do, or get excited about. Write down these ideas in a notebook. Inspiration can also come from your childhood memories or something you’ve always wanted to share.
3. What is a good idea for a picture book?
Here are some fun ideas to boost your creativity:
- Write about an animal who is moving to a new city.
- Write about a child who is visiting the farm for the first time.
- Write about a child learning to read with the help of some friendly animals.
- Create a story about an animal discovering what it means to be loyal.
Final Thoughts
Writing a good picture book needs practice. However, with the right approach, it’s a memorable experience. Focus on writing a simple and clear story with a relatable character who learns something important. Use illustrator notes to guide the visual and keep the language engaging and fun.
By following these steps, reading widely, and learning from the best in the industry, you will be good on your way to turning your story idea into a picture book that both publishers and kids will love.