Behind the Scenes: How I Create a Picture Book from Idea to Publication
If you’ve ever dreamed of writing a picture book, you’re not alone. Picture books are magical! They combine the power of words and art to create stories that resonate with readers of all ages. But how does a picture book go from an idea to a finished book? As a picture book author, I’m often asked about my creative process, and today, I’m pulling back the curtain to share exactly how it works. Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a seasoned author, or simply curious about the world of picture books, this behind-the-scenes look will inspire you to pick up your pen (or keyboard) and start creating.
And if you’re as passionate about picture books as I am, I invite you to subscribe to my Substack, where I share exclusive insights, writing tips, and sneak peeks into my latest projects. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: The Spark of an Idea
Every picture book begins with an idea. For me, many of my books have been inspired by real stories I have experienced as a teacher. However; some of my manuscripts have been inspired by a single image or phrase that pops into my head. Other times, it’s been a theme or emotion I wanted to explore.
Ideas can come from anywhere—a conversation with a child, a walk in nature, or even a dream. The key is to capture them before they slip away. I keep a notebook (or my phone’s notes app) handy at all times to jot down thoughts, no matter how small or silly they seem. Not every idea becomes a book, but each one is a stepping stone to something greater.
If you’re struggling to find inspiration, I recommend reading The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. This book is a game-changer for unlocking creativity and overcoming self-doubt.
Step 2: Drafting the Story
Once I have an idea I’m excited about, I start writing. Many people believe that picture books are deceptively simple. Mainly because they’re short, usually under 1,000 words. But, every word matters. The text needs to be concise, rhythmic, and engaging, with room for the illustrations to tell part of the story. This is where the complexity comes in
I begin by writing a rough draft, letting the words flow without worrying too much about structure. Then, I revise, revise, and revise some more. I read the story aloud to hear how it sounds, tweak the pacing, and cut anything that doesn’t serve the narrative. It’s not uncommon for me to go through 20 or 30 drafts before I’m satisfied.
One of my favourite tools during this stage is Writing Picture Books by Ann Whitford Paul. This book is a treasure trove of advice on crafting compelling stories for young readers.
Step 3: Editing and Refining
Once the manuscript is complete, the book goes through several rounds of editing. This is where the editor and I work together to fine-tune every detail. We might adjust the pacing or tweak the wording to ensure the story flows seamlessly.
Editing can be challenging—it’s hard to let go of words or scenes you love—but it’s also incredibly rewarding. A good editor helps you see your story with fresh eyes and pushes you to make it the best it can be.
Step 4: Collaborating with an Illustrator
One of the most exciting parts of creating a picture book is seeing the illustrations come to life. Unless you’re both an author and an illustrator, this is a collaborative process.
The illustrator brings their own vision to the story, adding depth and emotion through their art. For example, in my book, Masterpiece, the illustrator created a beautiful blue vision that perfectly captured the mood of the story. I’m always amazed by how illustrations can elevate the text and create a richer reading experience.
If you’re curious about the illustrator’s side of the process, I highly recommend Show Your Work! by Austin Kleon. It’s a fantastic resource for understanding how artists think and create.
Step 5: Designing the Book
The design phase is where the book really starts to come together. The designer lays out the text and illustrations, choosing fonts, colors, and page layouts that enhance the story.
I love seeing the first mock-up of the book. It’s thrilling to hold a physical representation of the story I’ve been working on for months (or even years).
Step 6: Printing and Publication
Once the design is finalized, the book goes to print. This is both exciting and nerve-wracking—after all, there’s no turning back once the printing presses start rolling!
When the first copies arrive, it’s a moment of pure joy. Holding a finished picture book in your hands is a reminder of why all the hard work was worth it.
Step 7: Sharing the Book with the World
The final step is sharing the book with readers. This might involve book signings, school visits, or virtual events. It’s incredibly rewarding to see children connect with the story and make it their own.
Picture books have the power to spark imagination, build empathy, and create lasting memories. If you’ve ever dreamed of writing one, now is the time to start. And if you’d like to learn more about the craft of picture book writing, I invite you to subscribe to my Substack. Together, we’ll explore the magic of storytelling and bring your ideas to life.
Why Subscribe to My Substack?
If you’re an aspiring picture book author—or simply someone who loves stories—my Substack is the place for you. Here’s what you’ll get when you subscribe:
Exclusive insights into my creative process, from brainstorming ideas to collaborating with illustrators.
Writing tips and resources to help you craft your own picture books.
Sneak peeks at my upcoming projects and behind-the-scenes content you won’t find anywhere else.
A supportive community of fellow writers and book lovers.
Writing picture books is a journey, and I’d love for you to join me. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your craft, my Substack is here to inspire and guide you every step of the way.
What’s your favorite picture book, and why does it inspire you? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!
Subscribe today and let’s create something magical together.