10 INGREDIENTS FOR A GREAT PICTURE BOOK

In part of an Institute of Children's Literature interview with Kim Norman, author of Crocodaddy, she discusses the 10 things that are good to include in a picture book. "The Picture Perfect Picture Book" occurred on September 7-9, 2009.

Try to include at least 4 or 5, but not necessarily all 10.

1. conflict
2. pacing
3. interesting characters
4. humor
5. word play
6. unique setting
7. surprise/twist ending
8. voice
9. only about one thing, one conflict (no subplots and multiple themes)
10. empathy (MC having a problem with which the reader can identify)

If your PB is an "early" PB for 2-5 year-olds, you may be able to get away with no real conflict. But those stories are extremely difficult to break into the market.

In the weeks to come, I'll talk more about word play, voice, and plots and themes. For now, check out the rest of Kim Norman's interview for more of her writing wisdom! Have a great day and happy writing!

If you liked this, read The Top 10 Story Elements.

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