No, you don’t need to have your picture book manuscript illustrated before submitting it to a publishing house. Just send in the typed manuscript according to industry standards. For more information on how to submit your manuscript check out the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators at
http://www.scbwi.org.
Another site with general information about children’s book publishing is The Purple Crayon Blog at http://www.underdown.org/blog.htm.
How much does it cost to have my story illustrated?
Contract negotiations are between you and your illustrator. However, all of our members are professionals and therefore charge professional rates.
If I’m ready to self-publish my book what information should I know before contacting a professional illustrator?
In order for a professional illustrator to give you a quote for your job, you need to supply the following information:
• Type of project – e.g. – 32 page picture book
• Subject matter - e.g. – fairy tale, animal story, contemporary kids
• Target age range
• Color or Black and White
• Dimensions for the book
• Number and size of the illustrations
• Style – realistic or cartoon
• Book design and layout needed – yes/no
• Prepress needed – yes/no
• Deadline
• Name of Printer
