How Do First Time Authors Get Published?

Publishing your first children’s book as a new author can be daunting. However, once you pinpoint your target audience, research publishing houses, choose between literary agents or direct submissions, and build your platform early, the process becomes much smoother. 

In this blog, we will discuss the publishing process for new authors and give you a heads-up on how you can prepare yourself in advance. Hence, keep reading to get your answers.  

The Publishing Process for First-Time Authors

Before you reach out to professional children’s book publishers or seek advice from fellow authors, we suggest you follow this roadmap to publishing to keep yourself on track: 

Finalize Your Manuscript

Yes, getting your book published is significant. Still, if your book is written and edited to perfection, it builds your credibility as an author and creates the best first impression of you as a capable writer.

Hence, work on refining your manuscript first. Finish your draft, then sit down and edit it. Remove any grammatical or spelling errors and fix the flow and structure of the manuscript. Proofread your work multiple times to ensure consistency. 

It is recommended that you hire an expert editor and proofreader, as it is often difficult to find flaws in your own work. Thus, getting an outsider’s perspective and feedback can help improve your draft. 

Identify Your Genre and Target Audience

It is easy to assume the target audience for your children’s book is the kids themselves, but in fact, it is parents and teachers who are looking for engaging, informative books for their little ones.

Whether it is an illustration book, storybook, fairy tale, poetry, or non-fiction, you need to be sure who will buy your book and how you can demonstrate its value proposition to the target audience. 

Research the Publishing Houses

While you are in the publishing process, take a look at their publication guidelines. You need to understand what they demand from new authors and how you make those changes in your book to align with their standards.

These publishers are also well-versed with what the readers are interested in; hence, adapting to their guidelines will help your book grab attention among the literary community. 

Prepare Your Publishing Materials

Write a compelling book proposal to convince publishers and show them why your book deserves publication. Include a brief synopsis of your manuscript, and be clear and specific in your writing. 

Your proposal should be professional and persuasive. Focus on why your book could sell more than what it contains. 

Decide Between Literary Agents and Direct Submissions

While you can directly submit your manuscript to publications, hiring a literary agent can provide you with valuable insights regarding publishing and make the process seamless for you. 

A literary agent is like your business partner who will find you publishers, negotiate book deals with them, and manage your career by securing the best contracts. 

Moreover, they can also help in the overall design and presentation of your book and will find the best children’s book cover design company for you. 

Submit Your Manuscript

When you are about to submit your manuscript, do not just send it everywhere. You need to be strategic with your submission and want to be taken seriously by publications.

Thus, carefully review submission guidelines and keep a record of where and when you submitted. Remember, it is okay to face rejection. Do not be discouraged or take it to heart. Instead, let it fuel you to keep going until you see your book on a library’s shelf. 

Understand the Publishing Contract

Getting your first publishing contract is a major milestone for new authors, but do not get too carried away. These contracts can contain complicated legal clauses, so you must understand the contract before signing it.

Pay attention to clauses regarding deadlines, rights, advances, and termination. Understand these sections well so that it is clear what the publishers expect from you and vice versa. 

Explore Self-Publishing as an Alternative Path

If going for traditional publishing seems too complicated for you, then self-publishing is always an option. In this process, you will be handling every detail regarding your book. From designing eye-catching book covers to applying the right format, these responsibilities will be solely yours.

You will also look for digital publishing platforms such as Amazon KDP, Barnes & Noble, and others. Choose the most suitable platform, then publish your book confidently. 

Build Your Author Platform Early

Having an author platform means building your website or page on social media handles such as Instagram. Many new and established authors have their own pages where they connect with their audience and share insights about their book and writing journey.

This is also a great way to build a fandom. Once your children’s book is published and people are hooked, it is the right time to let them get to know you. 

Market Your Book After Publication

While publishers can handle your book promotion, if you choose the self-publishing route, then you need to take charge of marketing. To get children to read your book and make your work truly successful, you need to increase your visibility and sales.

Connect with readers via social media. Post blogs about your book on your website. You can also collaborate with book reviewers, clubs, and influencers to create buzz about your work. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can first-time authors get published without an agent?

Yes, while some new authors can get published without an agent at small publishing houses, larger publications require an agent. 

How long does it take to get published as a new author?

Your publishing process can range from a few months to a year, depending on the publishing route you choose. 

Is self-publishing a good option for new authors?

Yes, if you want full creative control and can manage your manuscript’s editing, designing, and marketing. 

Make Your Publishing Goal Achievable

Reaching out to publishers, preparing required materials, and getting your book published can be overwhelming for new authors. However, if you refine your manuscript from the beginning and work with a literary agent, you can ease your publishing journey.

Whether you choose a traditional route or self-publishing, you need to be prepared and keep trying with perseverance and realistic expectations. With a strategic approach, you can streamline your book publishing process and make it reach its intended readers.