5 Mistakes to ‘Avoid’ When Writing a Children’s Picture Book
Writing a children’s picture book is magical—but it’s not as easy as it looks! Between captivating little readers and creating a harmonious relationship between words and illustrations, there are pitfalls even seasoned writers stumble into. Let’s dive into 5 mistakes to avoid so your book becomes a page-turner kids (and parents!) love to read again and again.
1. SHOW, Don’t Tell
This is the golden rule of storytelling, and it’s especially important for picture books. Children’s books are visual experiences, so instead of narrating what’s happening, let the illustrations do the heavy lifting!
Mistake:
“Lila felt scared as the thunder boomed.”
Better:
“Lila clutched her teddy bear tightly, her wide eyes fixed on the crackling sky.”
💡 Tip: Write vivid actions or emotions your illustrator can transform into stunning visuals. Trust them to bring life to your words.
2. Keep It Simple
Picture books are short, usually 500–800 words, and every word matters. Instead of describing every detail in text, trust the illustrations to fill in the blanks.
Mistake:
“The meadow was filled with colorful flowers of every kind—roses, daisies, tulips—and butterflies danced from petal to petal.”
Better:
“The meadow bloomed bright as butterflies fluttered by.”
(Illustration fills in the rest!)
💡 Tip: Use concise, impactful language that leaves room for illustrations to shine.
3. Use Age-Appropriate Vocabulary
Young readers need words they can understand without losing the joy of discovery. If you make it too complex, you lose them; too simple, and it’s dull. Find the sweet spot!
Mistake:
“The gargantuan dragon exhibited ferocious truculence.”
Better:
“The enormous dragon growled with fiery rage.”
💡 Tip: Read your manuscript out loud! If it sounds awkward or too advanced, simplify it.
4. Forgetting Page Turners
Every page should make the reader want to flip to the next one. This is how you keep kids engaged (and begging for “just one more time!”). End each page with a cliffhanger, a question, or a surprise.
Mistake:
“Sarah decided to open the treasure chest and found gold.”
Better:
“Sarah knelt before the chest. Her hands trembled as she lifted the lid… What was inside?”
💡 Tip: Think of each page break as a mini-drama. Leave readers eagerly turning the page to see what happens next!
5. Forgetting the Illustrator
As a picture book writer, you’re only half of the creative team. Visualizing your story and collaborating with an illustrator is key to making your book magical!
Mistake:
Overloading your manuscript with descriptions like:
“The boy wore a red-striped shirt, blue pants, and yellow rain boots. He stood next to a tall oak tree, looking at a nest filled with three blue eggs.”
Better:
“The boy stared at the nest with wide eyes, his heart racing.”
(Let the illustrator design the scene!)
💡 Tip: Storyboard your book or make notes about how you imagine each scene. Be specific but leave creative freedom for your illustrator to interpret.
Final Thought: Writing for Children Is a Team Effort
Crafting a children’s picture book means balancing your words with the magic of illustrations. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll create a story that’s not just read—it’s cherished.
So, grab your pen, think like a kid, and start writing your next masterpiece! And remember: simplicity, vividness, and collaboration are your best friends.
