Well, I did!
And was I in for a rude surprise.
Yes, this little picture book was a lot more difficult than I ever imagined.
But I’m getting closer to the finish line.
This little Princess is almost here.
I’m working on covers now.
Coming into the home stretch and shooting for an April launch! Whoo hoo.
Sometimes I’m so naive. I’d really thought this picture book would be easier than my first book, Tryouts for Ben. Boy was I in for a big surprise. I’m beginning to believe, size doesn’t matter. LOL
A book is a book, and the work involved to bring it to readers, no matter their age, is all the same. As a writer, I want to always produce a great product and that takes a lot of time and work. An editor is just as valuable for a children’s book as for a 600 page historical novel.
Concept and idea matters. In fact, I’m learning as with every story I write, everything matters.
If you’re interested in writing a children’s book the following articles may help you get started.
How To Develop Children Story Ideas and Create Picture Books
10 TIPS FOR WRITING CHILDREN’S PICTURE BOOKS
Writing Picture Books for Children
Leave me a comment and let me know what you think of the cover for my new book.
Too plain? Suggestions?
You can find me on Twitter @jeancogdell, Facebook at jean.cogdell and Amazon.com, stop by and say hey! Please remember to click and share this post with your Twitter peeps and Facebook fans.
I like your cover it is appealing and I would purchase it because the cover is kind and friendly, we want children to like reading after all. But she looks like she is enjoying her lot as a princess and isn’t reluctant afterall.
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Thank you so much! She will be making her debut in a couple of weeks. Fingers crossed!
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I wish you and your princess nothing but the best. 😇
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Reblogged this on theowlladyblog.
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You know who doesn’t think writing a picture book is easy? Anyone who’s ever written one! I really like this cover. It’s adorable and engaging. The reason why picture books are challenging is because you are trying to tell a story in few words so every word counts and has to be just the right one! Plus if you’re not an illustrator, you are also relying on someone else to help convey your message. I knew just what I wanted to say in my picture book about grandparents, that today’s grands are vibrant, etc. but it took me several rounds with the illustrator before he got the images to reiterate exactly what I meant. Your book looks great. Can’t wait to see it in real life. Love the title.
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I read a lot of picture books (one of my favorite genres!) and I think your cover is great! I can’t wait to read your book.
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Thanks! I can’t wait to hear what you think about it too. Glad you liked the cover.
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All the above! Another great book for my Sis. Love the cover.
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Thank you, fingers crossed this thing gets launched without too many hiccups.
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Great cover, simple , uncluttered illustration. In many instances a a writer and artist collaborate but to be able to do both is an enviable talent.
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Carl, you’re too kind. I am using a vary talented illustrator to help me with the images. Takes a village to raise a book.
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Question. My picture book is written and the illustrations are marvelous. I’m waiting for a printer to offer a larger format for my picture book. Do you ‘co-author’ your book with an illustrator, or do you pay him/her separately for the illustrations, and keep the book’s copyright in your name?
I love your cover! 🙂
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I purchase the illustrations outright. That enables me to use them however I choose. I do list the illustrator on the inside flap.
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Jean, love this little reluctant princess look! It’s a perfect cover! Don’t know why I think the chair color could be a little darker purple, or the dress darker for contrast. But, next thought…you already tried that and like it as is! Elizabeth
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LOL, thank you so much. I’m glad you like it.
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Hello, Jean. Yes, I love the cover of the new book too. It isn’t too plain at all in my opinion. The character looks very cheeky, and it’s quite intriguing. Good luck with it.
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Thank you Kimberly, cheeky is good. LOL
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A great cover and a book I will be interested to review, and hopfully purchase for my grand daughter’s.
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Ellen, I’d be so thrilled to have you review the book! Thank you.
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Just let me know how wher to email my details to when your ready. 😇
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Thanks!
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Love the cover of Tryouts for Ben every bit as much as A Most Reluctant Princess. The artwork on each is remarkable. 🙂
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Thanks! Ashley Bauer is an amazing illustrator and works with me to give my characters life. Not an easy process.
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P.S. Found you via Mr. Ape 😄
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Mr. Ape is the best!
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Hi Jean, I love your cover. It made me want to visit your site. The princess shows she’s struggling to remove the crown which shows her reluctance to what? Makes one want to know why. I agree writing a picture book is as difficult as writing a novel. All the best with your launch. 😊
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Wow! Thanks Tracy. I was concerned the cover might be too plain, with a white background. Thanks again for taking the time to leave an encouraging comment.
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I LOVE this! The look on her face is priceless. I appreciate that it is NOT PINK, as I see purple as a most regal color. With the oversized chair and crown, I know instantly that this is about a l-i-t-t-l-e girl. And her clothes speak to an innocence that invites me to want to open the book and explore. Fine job, Jean! Fine job!
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Thank you Annette! Yes, I am so lucky to have a wonderful illustrator who works with me to make my vision a reality.
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Reblogged this on Chris The Story Reading Ape's Blog.
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Thanks Chris
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My pleasure Jean – Great post and links 👍😃
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