I receive many e-mails asking about getting a book published. Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions. I hope they help you!

1. If there is a class in writing for children being given nearby, TAKE IT!

2. Most publishers are only accepting manuscripts submitted by agents. I don’t use an agent so I am unable to recommend any. 

3. You can find a list of agents in reference books, such as: CHILDREN’S WRITER’S & ILLUSTRATOR’S MARKET and CHILDREN’S BOOK MARKET (The Writer’s Sourcebook).  Just make sure you have the most current copy, as people change positions and guidelines. These books also provide excellent advice on submissions, what editors look for, etc. It has much more information than I ever will!

4.  YOU DO NOT NEED AN ILLUSTRATOR in order to submit a manuscript. It is the editor’s job to match up the manuscript with the right illustrator. 

5. READ, READ, READ! Read as many children’s books as you can so you know the market.

6. Join SCBWI (Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators). Their web site is SCBWI.COM – this is one of the best things you can do to learn about the children’s book market.

7. I get a lot of e-mails asking me to collaborate on a book. I’m sorry to disappoint but I am unable to comply. I only write with my published author friends when I collaborate.

8. I also get e-mails asking permission to use my IF YOU GIVE title for an idea as a book you want to write. Please know that legally, I am unable to grant permission to do this. (And wouldn’t it be better to use your own fresh ideas?)

9. Don’t get discouraged if you get some rejections. IF YOU GIVE A MOUSE A COOKIE was turned down 9 times!

10. And most of all, WRITE BECAUSE YOU LOVE WRITING and not because you are looking to make money!