How Long Does It Take to Publish a Picture Book? A Real Timeline from EK Books
Writers are often surprised by how long it takes for an accepted picture book to reach the shelves. Once a contract is signed, it can feel like nothing is happening. In reality, a lot is happening, just not always where the author can see it.
To take the mystery out of it, here’s what the journey looks like at EK Books, based on the real production schedules behind the picture books we’re publishing this year. The short version: from a finished, edited manuscript to a book in readers’ hands usually takes around twelve months. And that’s after the manuscript has been acquired.
Stage 1: Acquisition and contract
Before any of the timeline below begins, your manuscript has to be read, discussed internally, checked against the publisher’s list and sales plans, and offered a contract. This stage varies enormously from publisher to publisher and from book to book, so we won’t put a number on it. What matters is that the clock on production usually starts once the text is edited and signed off.
Stage 2: The edit (around one month before illustration begins)
Your editor works with you to tighten the text. In a picture book that often means cutting words that the illustrations will carry, refining the rhythm for reading aloud, and making sure each page turn earns its place. Once the edited text is ready, the next step comes quickly.
Stage 3: Matching the illustrator (about three weeks later)
The publisher commissions an illustrator and sends them the edited text. In our schedules, this typically happens two to three weeks after the text is finalised. (If you’re wondering whether you should have found an illustrator yourself, read our guide on that question. The short answer is no.)
Stage 4: Roughs and storyboard (about one month)
The illustrator produces pencil roughs: a storyboard showing how the text and images break across the pages, plus early cover ideas. These go to the designer and project manager. The publisher gives feedback, and a second round of roughs usually follows within a couple of weeks.
This is the stage where the book really takes shape. It’s also where authors are sometimes asked for their view, depending on the publisher, though the final call on illustration sits with the publishing team.
Stage 5: Final colour artwork (around four months)
This is the longest single stage, and for good reason. Once the roughs are approved, the illustrator creates the finished, full-colour illustrations, including the cover. On our current list, roughly four months between approved roughs and delivered artwork is typical.
Stage 6: Design, proofs and final pages (about one month)
The designer places the artwork and text, produces colour pages and cover options, and the team, including the author, reviews and approves them. The text is proofread one last time, final pages are signed off, and a print-ready file is created.
Stage 7: Printing (about four months before publication)
Here’s the part many writers don’t expect. Books go to the printer roughly four months before their publication date. For a picture book publishing in October, files typically go to print in early June. That window covers printing, binding, shipping and getting stock into warehouses in every market.
Stage 8: Selling in, long before publication day
While all of this is going on, the book is already being sold. Months before publication, the publisher sends title information, covers and sample pages to sales teams, distributors and retailers in each territory. Teacher’s notes are written. Advance copies go to reviewers. Booksellers decide how many copies to order based on this material, which is why a strong cover and a clear, one-line pitch matter so much.
What this means for you as a writer
- Patience is part of the job. A year from edited text to publication is normal, not a sign that something has gone wrong.
- Your work isn’t finished at signing. Edits, approvals and author questionnaires all need prompt, professional responses to keep the book on schedule.
- Start your marketing early. By the time the book is printed, retailers have already placed their orders. Building your author profile in the months before publication makes a real difference.
- Keep writing. Publishers like to build relationships with authors over several books. The best use of the waiting time is your next manuscript.
Understanding how publishing actually works is one of the biggest advantages an emerging author can have. It’s at the heart of our Children’s Author Certification, where we teach the process from the inside, as working publishers. If you’re not sure your manuscript is ready to start this journey, try our free Is Your Children’s Book Ready for Publication? quiz.