by Julie Valin

Created on: November 27, 2009

Coming from the other end of the spectrum as a marketer of children's books for a publishing house, I have the fortune of a "marketer's eye view" for what types of books make it past the acquisition editor's first round, as well as what manuscripts end up in the bottom of the rejection heap.

The most important aspect of seriously finding a reputable publisher for your children's book is research, research, research.

1.) Diligently investigate publishers' submission guidelines to find a "match" for your manuscript.

Not doing the proper research of publishers is perhaps the number one mistake authors make. Most publishers have a niche for what types of children's book they publish, and they are very specific. Spending time doing your research in this area will automatically increase your credibility and show potential publishers that you are devoted to your work.

The best reference for finding children's book publishers is the Children's Writers & Illustrators Market 2010 . This is the bible of the industry and lists all children's book publishers, what types of book they publish, and their complete submission guidelines, as well as whether they accept unsolicited manuscripts (non-agented manuscripts). If they do accept unsolicited manuscripts (most small houses do), then follow their guidelines thoroughly. If they only accept manuscripts from literary agents, then there's one more area to research!

A great resource that encompasses all aspects of children's book publishing is The Complete Idiot's Guide to Publishing Children's Books . Besides covering everything you need to know about the industry, it also includes information on how to look for and work with a book agent.

2.) Use Amazon.com as a reference library for similar book titles & themes.

The last thing you want to do is submit a manuscript for a children's book about a pigeon riding a bus, or saying goodnight to the moon. Researching books with similar themes to yours will also show you what makes yours different, more appealing, or lead you to pinpoint the unique aspect of your book that may lead yours to stand out to publishers.

3.) Rub elbows with the industry.

It is important-for your own sanity and confirmation that you are doing the right thing-to connect with other children's authors, editors, librarians, and industry experts. The best place to do this is through becoming a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators (SCBWI). This is a great community for people

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