Most new writers think the finish line is typing “The End.” It’s not. A finished manuscript is only STEP 1. If you stop there, your book usually ends up sitting on your hard drive instead of in kids’ hands. Here’s what you actually need before you publish: 📘 Metadata matters This is the behind-the-scenes info that tells Amazon and bookstores what your book is about. You need: - Title + subtitle - Description - Keywords - Categories - Age range Without strong metadata, nobody can find your book. 📣 A launch strategy Even a simple launch can make a big difference. Plan out: - Your release date - Who you’re telling - Early reviewers - Social media posts - Any bonuses or pre-order push Launch = momentum. Momentum = sales. ⭐️ Reviews are gold Children’s books live or die by reviews. Even 10 solid reviews can help your book rank and get recommended. Build your review list before launch day. 🚚 Distribution Decide where your book will live: - Amazon KDP - IngramSpark - Local bookstores - School visits - Libraries - Your website A book is a product — it needs places to be discovered. 📈 Ongoing marketing This does NOT have to be overwhelming. Simple things work: - Weekly posts - Behind-the-scenes content - School readings - A small Amazon ad budget Consistency sells books. ⭐️ Bottom Line A strong manuscript + a weak plan = frustration. A strong manuscript + a simple plan = a successful children’s book.

WELCOME TO KIDS BOOK ACADEMY! 🎉📚✏️ I’m so glad you’re here. Whether you’ve written zero words or you already have a story in progress, this is the place where your children’s book goes from idea to finished book. Here’s what you can expect inside this community: ✔️ Daily lessons + writing guidance ✔️ Mistake-breakdowns to help you avoid the traps most new authors fall into ✔️ Support for outlining, writing, editing, publishing, and launching ✔️ Feedback on your ideas, titles, and pages ✔️ A group of people cheering you on and moving with you This is the FIRST time I’ve opened up my full process — the exact tools, techniques, and insights I’ve used to publish 70+ children’s books, including a national bestseller. If you’re new here, say hello below! Share: 1️⃣ Your name 2️⃣ The children’s book idea you wish you could write 3️⃣ What brought you here We’re building something special — and I’m excited you’re part of it. Let’s make your book REAL. 🚀📘

When I my my first book how will I get it in to the stores and do i need an agent

Let’s talk about one of the biggest mistakes new children’s book authors make: 3️⃣ Choosing the Wrong Illustrator A children’s book lives or dies by its art. The story and the illustrations must work together — and if the art doesn’t match the tone, age range, or message… the book falls flat. Here’s where most beginners go wrong: ❌ They hire based on price, not style Cheaper is almost never better. You want the right style, not the cheapest. ❌ They choose someone who doesn’t specialize in children’s books Children’s book illustration is a specialized skill — not every artist can do it. ❌ They don’t look for storytelling in the art Great illustrators don’t “draw pictures”… They tell the story visually. ❌ They don’t think about consistency Every character must stay visually consistent across the entire book. ⭐ How to choose the RIGHT illustrator: ✔️ Match the art style to your book’s emotional tone Is your book cute? funny? inspirational? adventurous? ✔️ Look for artists who already illustrate children’s books Their portfolio should show: – character consistency – strong composition – emotion – storytelling ✔️ Hire based on fit, not price The art is half the book. Invest where it matters. ✔️ Ask yourself: “Does this art make me FEEL something?” If the answer is yes, you’re close. YOUR TURN: If you’ve seen an illustrator style you love (or one you’re unsure about), post it below. I’ll give honest feedback on whether it fits your book.

I was wondering how many pages do a book need to be