How to publish a children's book

Guides for authors › How to publish a children's book

Children's books look simple, which is exactly why they are hard to get right. Every word counts, the pictures carry half the story, and the book has to delight two readers at once: the child, and the adult reading it aloud.

Know your age group

Children's books are written for a specific age, and the age decides almost everything else: length, vocabulary, how much the pictures do and how the book is printed.

Picture books (around ages 3 to 7) are short, read aloud, and the illustrations tell much of the story. Many are 24 or 32 pages.
Early readers and chapter books (around ages 5 to 9) are for children starting to read alone: short chapters, simple sentences and some illustrations.
Middle grade (around ages 8 to 12) are longer novels with fewer or no pictures.

Illustrations

For a picture book, the illustrations matter as much as the words. Agree in writing who owns the artwork, how it can be used (in the book, on the cover, in marketing), and whether the illustrator is credited. Make sure every image is original or properly licensed.

Printing a children's book

Full-colour printing costs more than black and white, which affects your price. Print on demand works well for many children's books, though some formats, such as board books, need traditional printing. Think about trim size and paper early: they affect the price and how the book feels in a child's hands.

Getting into schools and libraries

Schools, libraries and local bookshops are natural homes for children's books. Making your book available for them to order, with your own ISBN, and offering readings or workshops, can do more than any advert. Our schools and organisations page shows how SoulScriptz works with them.

Publishing your children's book with SoulScriptz

SoulScriptz publishes children's books, including our founder's Brightwood Adventures series for ages 4 to 9 and a shelf of picture books. We can help with editing, design, formatting for print and ebook, ISBNs, publishing and launch.

Questions authors ask

How long should a children's picture book be?

Many picture books are 24 or 32 pages, with short text on each spread. The right length depends on the age group.

Do I need an illustrator before I contact a publisher?

Not necessarily. Tell SoulScriptz what you have and we will talk through the options.

Can children's books be printed on demand?

Many can, including full-colour paperbacks. Some formats, such as board books, need traditional printing.

Ready to publish your book?

First-time authors get 50% off their first publication with SoulScriptz. Your manuscript stays yours, and the price is agreed in writing before any work starts.

Book a consultation Send your manuscript

Figures in this guide were checked in October 2026. Platform prices and rules change, so check the current figures before you rely on them. This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice.