How can I get a grant to get my book made

When I my my first book how will I get it in to the stores and do i need an agent

Most new writers think the finish line is typing “The End.” It’s not. A finished manuscript is only STEP 1. If you stop there, your book usually ends up sitting on your hard drive instead of in kids’ hands. Here’s what you actually need before you publish: 📘 Metadata matters This is the behind-the-scenes info that tells Amazon and bookstores what your book is about. You need: - Title + subtitle - Description - Keywords - Categories - Age range Without strong metadata, nobody can find your book. 📣 A launch strategy Even a simple launch can make a big difference. Plan out: - Your release date - Who you’re telling - Early reviewers - Social media posts - Any bonuses or pre-order push Launch = momentum. Momentum = sales. ⭐️ Reviews are gold Children’s books live or die by reviews. Even 10 solid reviews can help your book rank and get recommended. Build your review list before launch day. 🚚 Distribution Decide where your book will live: - Amazon KDP - IngramSpark - Local bookstores - School visits - Libraries - Your website A book is a product — it needs places to be discovered. 📈 Ongoing marketing This does NOT have to be overwhelming. Simple things work: - Weekly posts - Behind-the-scenes content - School readings - A small Amazon ad budget Consistency sells books. ⭐️ Bottom Line A strong manuscript + a weak plan = frustration. A strong manuscript + a simple plan = a successful children’s book.

One of the biggest mistakes new writers make is writing a book without first understanding who they’re writing for. Here’s what you must know before you start: 👶 Age group Are you writing for toddlers, preschoolers, early readers, or 6–8-year-olds? Each age has different vocabulary, length, pacing, and expectations. 📚 Category Is your book… • A humorous picture book? • A faith-based story? • A bedtime book? • A rhyming book? • An activity or learning book? 🎯 Audience need What problem, emotion, or desire does your book speak to? Examples: • Bedtime struggles • Confidence • Friendship • Fear • Gratitude • Starting school 📈 Market fit Look at 3–5 bestselling books similar to yours. Ask: What do they do well? What can I do differently? Your Turn: Comment below with: 1️⃣ The age group you want to write for 2️⃣ The category of book you want to write 3️⃣ One bestselling book your idea feels closest to I’ll reply and help you tighten the direction so your book is actually marketable.

Let’s talk about one of the biggest mistakes new children’s book authors make: 3️⃣ Choosing the Wrong Illustrator A children’s book lives or dies by its art. The story and the illustrations must work together — and if the art doesn’t match the tone, age range, or message… the book falls flat. Here’s where most beginners go wrong: ❌ They hire based on price, not style Cheaper is almost never better. You want the right style, not the cheapest. ❌ They choose someone who doesn’t specialize in children’s books Children’s book illustration is a specialized skill — not every artist can do it. ❌ They don’t look for storytelling in the art Great illustrators don’t “draw pictures”… They tell the story visually. ❌ They don’t think about consistency Every character must stay visually consistent across the entire book. ⭐ How to choose the RIGHT illustrator: ✔️ Match the art style to your book’s emotional tone Is your book cute? funny? inspirational? adventurous? ✔️ Look for artists who already illustrate children’s books Their portfolio should show: – character consistency – strong composition – emotion – storytelling ✔️ Hire based on fit, not price The art is half the book. Invest where it matters. ✔️ Ask yourself: “Does this art make me FEEL something?” If the answer is yes, you’re close. YOUR TURN: If you’ve seen an illustrator style you love (or one you’re unsure about), post it below. I’ll give honest feedback on whether it fits your book.