Publishing advice needed..

I have written a childrens story - - which I obviously would like to get published.
This came from and idea my girlfriend had because it combined our talents - - I wite the story - she illustrates…

now that the story is finished (and I’ve started work on the next story to follow on) she is about to finish off the illustrations…

my question, which I’m sure someone out there can help with, is how do we go about obtaining a publishing deal with the story and illustrations?

can this even be done?

there seems to be a worry that submitting the story with illustrations will hold it back from publication…

should it go to a literary agent first ?

any suggestions would be greatly received


Tales from the cryptic

Check out the site of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators.

Even if you’re not a member, you’ll find lots of helpful information about the children’s book field. You do not have to be published to join as an Associate Member and get full access to all their publications, workshops, and web info.

Basically, though, it’s a question of quality. If the illustrations are of professional quality, the fact the your girlfriend has done them would not be an issue - as long as your writing is of professional quality.

cheers for that, I’ll have a look through that website and see what they say too…


Tales from the cryptic

There was a thread a while back but I can’t find it. I thought it was titled "Ask the guy who works in publishing.
Anyway, one of the things I remember from the thread is that the publishers seem to prefer to choose the illustrator and don’t want you to turn in an illustrated story unless it is basically a picture book.
Good luck.

Yeah, that’s what we heard too… damn the system!!!

what about if I try and publish it myself via the web…???

does that sound like a viable option… try and build up a “cult” following…

It’s meant to appeal to adults too by the way…


Tales from the cryptic

There are a thousand different publishers of children’s books. Generalizations mean very little.

I did slightly paraphrase Zebra

I don’t think the post was meant as a generalization…

I’ll find a way :slight_smile: :smiley: