Discover practical, simple strategies to identify and resolve issues in your children’s book draft, ensuring it captivates young readers and aligns with today’s publishing standards.
As children’s authors, we carry the enormous privilege of shaping young minds through story. But transforming a bright idea into a polished manuscript that resonates with children isn’t always smooth sailing. For this final guest post, I wanted to share some practical ways to help you troubleshoot your manuscript and ensure it connects with readers in a meaningful way.
Finding Your Why
Every story begins with a spark, but sustaining that fire through the long journey of writing and revising requires a clear sense of purpose. Why this story? Why are you the one to tell it? And what do you hope your readers will take away?
Eyes That Speak to the Stars
by Joanna Ho
Your “why” is more than just a guiding light—it’s the emotional core that keeps your story authentic. In the book, The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld, the heartfelt exploration of empathy and emotional resilience stemmed from the author’s reflections on personal grief. Similarly, in Eyes That Speak to the Stars by Joanna Ho (2022), the theme of self-acceptance is woven seamlessly into a narrative that uplifts Asian representation. A strong sense of purpose helps focus your manuscript and inspires young readers to connect deeply with your message.
Understanding Your Ideal Reader
Picture your ideal reader. How old are they? What are their fears, joys, and questions? Tailoring your story to a specific child ensures it has focus and emotional resonance. The eight-year-old who devours middle-grade adventures in Maya and the Robot by Eve L. Ewing (2021) differs from the toddler captivated by the bold imagery and sparse text of Peekaboo Farm by Camilla Reid (2020). Writing for a clear audience helps you create relatable, impactful characters and situations.
Crafting a Strong Main Character
A child’s connection to your book often hinges on your protagonist. Is your main character driving the story? Are they making decisions, solving problems, and experiencing growth? Children want to root for someone who reflects their dreams and struggles. In Amy Wu and the Warm Welcome by Kat Zhang (2022), Amy’s relatable desire to include a new friend while staying true to herself is a perfect example of an active and endearing protagonist.
Incorporating Conflict and Resolution
Big Feelings by Alexandra Penfold
and Suzanne Kaufman
Conflict is the beating heart of your story’s tension. Whether it’s internal, external, or a mix of both, the challenges your character faces should feel authentic and age-appropriate. Look at Big Feelings by Alexandra Penfold and Suzanne Kaufman (2021), where the characters navigate complex emotions like anger and frustration in a way that’s engaging and comforting for young readers. Build suspense and drama, but always guide your readers toward a satisfying resolution.
Balancing Text and Illustration
For illustrated works like picture books and graphic novels, the partnership between text and visuals is paramount. The words should complement the illustrations, leaving space for the art to enrich the storytelling. In I Talk Like a River by Jordan Scott and Sydney Smith (2020), the poetic narrative and evocative illustrations work together to depict the emotional journey of a boy overcoming his stutter. Let your illustrator—even if that’s you—carry part of the storytelling load.
Adding the Element of Surprise
The Barnabus Project
by The Fan Brothers
Children’s books thrive on delight and discovery. Does your story contain twists or moments that catch readers off guard? The Barnabus Project by The Fan Brothers (2020) captivates with its unexpected turns in an underground world of failed animal experiments, keeping young readers guessing until the end. Surprises, whether they're humorous or poignant, enhance the story’s memorability and make it an enduring favorite.
Choosing Words Carefully
Every word in a picture book carries weight, and brevity is your ally. Are your sentences efficient and evocative? George Saunders’ advice in A Swim in a Pond in the Rain applies well here: “Every element should be a little poem, freighted with subtle meaning that is in connection with the story’s purpose.” Modern picture books like Outside, Inside by LeUyen Pham (2021) demonstrate how concise text can evoke complex emotions and vivid imagery.
Showing, Not Telling
Bring your story to life by dramatizing events rather than explaining them. Sensory details and emotional cues invite readers into your world. In Blue Floats Away by Travis Jonker (2021), the gentle yet vibrant description of a melting iceberg’s journey immerses children in an environmental tale without overexplaining. Draft expansively, then pare down to essential, evocative language.
Leveraging Mentor Texts
The Year We Learned to Fly
by Jacqueline Woodson
and Rafael López
Even experienced writers benefit from mentor texts. What five books resonate with your story’s tone, theme, or style? Recent works like The Year We Learned to Fly by Jacqueline Woodson and Rafael López (2022) or How to Catch a Clover Thief by Elise Parsley (2021) offer valuable insights into pacing, language, and narrative structure. Let these books inspire you as you refine your manuscript.
Pressure Test Your Prose By Reading it Aloud
The ultimate test of a children’s book is how it sounds when read aloud. Share your story with a trusted friend or a young reader. Are the rhythms engaging? Do the words flow effortlessly? Listening to yourself read can reveal clunky phrasing or uneven pacing, helping you polish the manuscript to perfection.
Diagnosing Common Issues
If your manuscript isn’t quite landing, step back and reassess. Are the stakes high enough? Is the theme clear? Are the language and concepts age-appropriate? Troubleshooting is about asking hard questions and being open to change. As you work, remember: every great book began as a messy draft once upon a time.
Cara J. Stevens is a writer, editor, and book coach with over 20 years of experience in children’s publishing. Based in Los Angeles, she specializes in helping writers craft their stories across genres, offering services in developmental editing, book coaching, and creative workshops. Cara served as the 2023 SCBWI-L.A. Mentor, and contributes frequently to Kite Tales, the SCBWI Southern California blog. Her most recent children’s book is the Mean Girls Little Golden Book, illustrated by Viven Wu and Chivaun Fitzpatrick (Little Golden Books). She has been an SCBWI member since 1996. Her podcast, Picture Perfect, features interviews with kidlit professionals and quick writing tips, and can be accessed on most podcast streaming platforms. Learn more at carajstevens.com.
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