Every great children's story starts at the same point (Imagination), but if you're new to the genre, then you will need the right guidance to understand how to write a children's book. This simple guide covers all the essentials and offers real-life examples.  

Here’s what this blog is about...  

• Shaping Your Ideas  

• Building Characters that Kids Love  

• Adding Illustrations  

• Finding the Right Publisher  

All these steps are essential for writing a book. It doesn't matter if you are writing for toddlers or middle graders, these small tips will help you write a story that everyone will cherish. 

Step 1 - Find Your Core Message  

Children’s book starts with a simple message. So, before you even start to writing, think about what you want the children to learn from this book. It can be friendship, kindness, courage or curiosity. Children naturally connect with emotion not complexity. A clear message will help your story's overall tone, characters and the ending.  

Your core message should be the main focus of the story. That's what kids will remember long after the story ends. 

Step 2 - Know Your Readers’ Age Group  

Before you start writing...You need to know who you're writing for. Each age group has its own way of seeing the world and your tone, language, and story length should match that.  

Step 3 - Create Relatable Characters  

The most important part of a story is the characters, the ones kids see themselves in or dream of becoming. These characters can be animals, children, or even imaginative creatures, but they should feel real —something the children can relate to. So, the way your characters grow or act must feel real. Give your characters emotions, dreams & also some flaws. 

Maybe your hero is brave but shy, curious but clumsy, because children don’t relate to perfection; they relate to honesty. If young readers can see a bit of themselves in a character, then that story becomes more than just words; it becomes a memory they carry with them. 

Step 4 - Keep the Story Simple, Short and Engaging  

Use straightforward and easy language when writing for young readers. Add repetitions and brief sentences instead of going into great detail to explain everything. Incorporate feelings, conversations, and actions; this draws children in and helps them remember the story. 

Step 5 - Add Illustrations that Speak  

Illustrations are just as crucial as words in a children's book. They give life to settings, characters, and feelings. It helps children to relate to and visualize the story by boosting their imaginations. Each illustration is a part of the storyline; you can choose to create the visuals yourself or hire an illustrator. Illustrations should add life to the story and make it understandable. 

Step 6 - Edit, Read Aloud and Get Feedback  

Editing is not just fixing grammar...It’s about making the story’s flow and clarity a lot better. Reading your story aloud helps to find the awkward phrasing and rhythm. Sharing it with parents, teachers or children themselves can also provide valuable insights. Feedback helps make your story truly engaging for its young audience.  

Step 7 - How to Publish a Children’s Book in the USA  

Once your story is ready, it’s time to think about publishing. Start by researching publishers that accept children’s books.  

For example, Austin Macauley Publishers USA  

They welcome new authors and children’s stories. Next, prepare your manuscript carefully. Along with it, write a simple book proposal that explains your story, target age group and why it matters. Publishing your book means your story can reach more than just readers at home. It can find its way into classrooms, libraries and even children all across the country.  

Here are Some Examples of Our Published Children’s Books 

Explore these 10 most-recommended children's books published by Austin Macauley Publishers. 

What's Wrong with This Picture by Claude Filion  

Genre: Coloring Book / Interactive Learning  

Synopsis: Daisy is a young dog with musical talent. She tries out different instruments but makes mistakes along the way. In this coloring book, each page has a fun sketch for you to color.  

A Children’s Guide to Story Yoga by Celeste da Silva Cunha  

Genre: Educational / Mindfulness  

Synopsis: This book is a mix of yoga and storytelling for kids. Use simple poses and short stories…So, children can learn body awareness and mindfulness in a fun, playful way.  

The Little Worry Warts by Melissa Laffey-Flores  

Genre: Picture Book / Emotional Well-being  

Synopsis: What if a lightning bug loses its light or a horsefly land in a giant web? Lexi, Horace, Bella, and Gus help children focus on the positive and it shows how friendship and optimism calm anxious hearts.  

The Magical Forest of Lemon by JK Haskim  

Genre: Fantasy / Adventure  

Synopsis: This story is an escape to a world full of adventures and endless fun. This story is for children and it is full of colorful characters, imaginary settings and a lighthearted escape.  

You Gotta Have Cheer by Lois Morton  

Genre: Poetry / Creative Learning  

Synopsis: This book is packed with art games, poems and whimsical cheers…It makes learning more playful. Kids and teachers can both learn from the experiences and have a connection with books like these.  

My Friend, Thomas Carl by Nathaniel C. Nelson  

Genre: Friendship / Animal Story  

Synopsis: A lonely child meets Thomas Carl, a cat from a shelter. Together they learn about friendship, acceptance, and the power of small acts of kindness. This story reminds young readers that friendship can come from anywhere, even a cat. 

Peanut Learns to Share by Shawnda Walker  

Genre: Picture Book / Moral Story  

Synopsis: Peanut loves her new swing on vacation, but a second surprise challenges her ability to share. This gentle story shows children the value of kindness, patience, and the joy of giving. 

The Flamingo with Two Left Feet by Patti Bonesteel  

Genre: Inspirational / Animal Story  

Synopsis: Fernando the flamingo struggles to dance, but with patience, practice, and a little help from their mother, they got back their confidence. It is a tale about perseverance, self-belief, and finding who you truly are. 

A Day in the Life of a Dog Named Emma by Denise Muscolino  

Genre: Real-life / Pet Adventure  

Synopsis: Emma, a loyal chocolate Labrador, protects her home with energy and devotion. She’s inspired by a real dog - this story mixes playful antics, adventure and loyalty.  

A Home for Mr Higgins by David Preece  

Genre: Animal Story / Family & Acceptance  

Synopsis: Mr Higgins, a spirited Scottish terrier finally found a loving home with two dads who recognize his worth. This story celebrates family, acceptance and finding love in places where no one expected.