Can Anyone Publish a Children’s Book?

The idea of publishing a children’s book often sounds wonderfully simple. After all, how hard can it be to write a few hundred words and pair them with illustrations? The truth, however, is both more challenging and more rewarding. So, can anyone publish a children’s book? Technically, yes. But successfully publishing one that resonates, sells, and endures requires far more than enthusiasm.

At EK Books, we are committed to publishing books with heart on issues that matter, and you may have a manuscript that fits the bill!  Keep reading for our team’s tips on successfully writing a children’s book and things to keep in mind if you plan to publish.

Why Publishing a Children’s Book Isn’t as Easy as It Sounds

Don’t let the challenges scare you! Rather, start your journey towards publishing with a realistic perspective on what will be involved. 

While self-publishing has helped lower the barriers to publishing a children’s book, the expectations of the marketplace have not. Children’s books must meet a remarkably high standard—both in terms of writing and visual storytelling. Editors and readers alike expect a book that is developmentally appropriate, emotionally resonant, and beautifully produced. And with the rise of self-publishing, traditional publishers are even more careful in their selection process. 

The misconception that children’s books are “easy” often leads first-time authors to underestimate the craft and the process.

What You Need to Know Before You Write a Children’s Book

Before you even start writing, it’s important to understand your audience. A picture book for preschoolers is entirely different from an early reader or a middle-grade chapter book. Each has its own conventions for word count, vocabulary, themes, and pacing.

Successful authors don’t just write stories they love—they write stories that reflect a deep understanding of child psychology, narrative structure, and genre expectations. Researching comparison titles, reading widely in your target category, and understanding current trends (without blindly chasing them) are essential steps to writing  and publishing a children’s book. 

How to Publish a Children’s Book: Two Main Options

There are two main paths to publishing a children’s book: traditional publishing and self-publishing. Each has distinct advantages and challenges.

Traditional Children’s Book Publishing for Beginners

In traditional publishing, a publishing house (like EK Books) takes on the financial risk of producing your book. They handle editing, design, illustration, printing, and distribution. In return, you typically earn a royalty based on sales.

But entry is competitive. Many publishers do not accept unsolicited manuscripts (but EK Books does!), and those that do are swamped with submissions. (Read more: What Children’s Publishers are Looking for in 2025) Your best route is often to secure a literary agent or carefully pitch your manuscript according to a publisher’s guidelines. Importantly, publishers prefer to choose their own illustrators; unless you are also a professional illustrator, do not submit your manuscript with artwork attached.

Self-Publishing a Children’s Book: What to Expect

Self-publishing gives you complete creative control and the ability to bring your book to market quickly. However, it also means you are responsible for everything—editing, design, illustration, production, marketing, and distribution.

Costs can add up quickly: professional illustration alone can range from $2,000 to $10,000 or more. You will also need to invest in high-quality editing and book design to ensure your book meets the professional standards expected by booksellers, librarians, and readers.

Children’s Picture Book Tips: Avoiding Common Mistakes First-Time Authors Make

Regardless of whether you choose the self or traditional publishing route, there are some “first time” things to keep in mind. Too many first-time authors rush to print without a clear understanding of the industry. Here are some of the most common missteps:

• Underestimating the craft: A good children’s book requires revision, critique, and professional feedback.
• Ignoring production standards: Low-quality printing or amateurish design can derail even the best stories.
• Misjudging the audience: Books that are too long, too complex, or thematically inappropriate are quickly rejected by gatekeepers.
• Lack of marketing strategy: Publishing is only half the job. Getting your book into readers’ hands is the other half—and it’s just as difficult.
• Going at it alone: While it is possible to publish a children’s book by yourself, it will be a much steeper climb. Connecting with others in the industry for guidance and mentorship will help smooth out the path. 

Can You Publish a Children’s Book? Yes, and…

So, can anyone publish a children’s book? The answer is yes—if they are willing to approach it with the same seriousness and professionalism as any other creative business. Passion is essential, but so is patience. Publishing a children’s book is not a hobby; it is a craft and an industry.

If you’re prepared to learn, invest in your development, and engage with the process from a business as well as a creative standpoint, then you are starting from a strong place. Writing the children’s book takes the creativity, but publishing the book takes strategy and determination.

Publishing a children’s book is a marathon, not a sprint. The authors who succeed are not always those with the most original ideas, but those with the most perseverance, the willingness to learn, and a commitment to quality.

Whether you choose the traditional route or go it alone, remember: your book has the potential to become part of a child’s formative reading experience. That is a privilege worth preparing for. 

Ready to take the next step? Explore more of our articles supporting children’s book authors, or check out our online course.