Kid appeal. Children experience
the world differently than adults. What adults take for granted is a first-time
experience for a child, making the event more exciting, challenging, amazing.
The world of a child is filled with wonder.
Consider the age of the target audience before
writing the first word. Word choice, sentence length, plot, and theme have to
work together to produce a story that appeals to a child’s sensibilities.
Generally, books for younger children have fewer words. The story doesn’t
preach; it educates, entertains, and explores.
Gatekeeper appeal. Adults decide which
books young children will hold in their hands and enjoy. They want picture
books that offer something of value, a story that reveals timeless truths. The
simple structure, beautiful illustrations, and economy of words create a theme
that connects with the child and the adult. I always review my polished draft
and ask, will this book be enjoyable on a second reading? Is there an
underlying universal theme that the parent and child can discuss? If I don’t
ask it, an editor certainly will. Editors often refer to books without a universal theme
as “slight.”
Marketability. One more important
aspect of revision is the marketability of the story. Are other similar books in
the marketplace? How is my book different? What does my book offer that is
different from the others?
Just write. We can’t
control the market, so write from the heart and tell the story you want to
tell.
Call
for Submissions for Adult Writers:
Babble
is an ever-evolving collection of wisdom and perspective and
humor. It brings together unique voices that foster refreshing conversations.
Real parents sharing real moments that help you think, help you learn, help you
laugh, and help you be a better you.
Indicate in the subject line of your email what section of
Babble your piece would run: Mom, Pregnancy, Baby, Toddler, Kid, Body + Mind,
Work + Money, Home, Relationships, Entertainment, Beauty, Food, or Travel.
