Resources For Authors

Are you an author looking to get published but aren’t sure where to start?

Don’t worry. I got you. Here are the resources I used:

STEP ONE - Figure out which path to publication is best for you. Traditional? Self-publishing? Hybrid publishing?

1. Read my BLOG POST on that - "How To Get Published" - https://www.alyssaauthor.com/blog/how-do-i-get-publishing 

2. Read the book WRITING PICTURE BOOKS by Ann Whitford Paul

3. Check out Jane Friedman’s Guide to Key Publishing Paths. She includes a chart and detailed but easy-to-understand explanations of the different ways to publish a book.

4. I’m NOT a self-publishing expert, because I traditionally published my books. However, Rahma Rodaah knows about self-publishing! If you’re thinking about self-publishing, consider this resource: Self Publishing: Everything You Need to Know

5. Watch these videos on the Pros & Cons to Traditional and Self-Publishing

   1. We want to discuss the Pros and Cons of Traditional Publishing and Self-Publishing. We will also talk about the differences and similarities between traditional publishing and self-publishing and the challenges for both pathways. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYQuBm7Z2dM

   2. In an effort to peel back the curtain, we will discuss the financial aspects of traditional vs. self-publishing. Join us on Wednesday, January 24 at 12:30 PM ET / 10:30 AM MT for a Writing Pathways session: MONEY for Self-publishing and Traditional publishing. We’ll discuss how much it costs to self-publish a book, answering questions like: How much does it cost to print the book? How much does an illustrator or cover artist cost? Do I need to pay to get my book reviewed by trade review boards like Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, Booklist, and more? If yes, how much does that cost? What other costs are associated with self-publishing? Plus: How does money work in traditional publishing? What is an advance? A royalty? What is earning out? https://www.youtube.com/live/uScwbKHOUdA

STEP TWO - Regardless of if you are self-publishing or traditionally publishing your manuscript you need FEEDBACK on it to make sure it is the BEST it can be. You need feedback to ensure it is engaging and clear. Here are some places you go to form critique groups to get feedback on your book

1. Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators

2. Look at the websites of authors you look up to and see if they offer paid critiques to get an expert’s perspective. (I offer manuscript critiques if you are interested in working with me.)

3. Apply for mentorship programs to get feedback on your manuscript and insights into publishing. More information about mentorship programs here: https://www.alyssaauthor.com/blog/the-value-of-mentorship-programs 

STEP THREE - Depends on which pathway you choose. If you decide to self-publish look into Ingram. If you want to traditionally publish your book, here are some more resources to help you.

Free Learning Resources

• Kidlit411

• Las Musas Books

• We Need Diverse Books

• The Word: A Storytelling Sanctuary

• Josh Funk Resources for Writers

• The Purple Crayon

• Resources for Children’s Writers

• TaraLazar.com and her related StoryStorm challenge

Helpful Online Communities

• Kidlit411

• Kidlit Alliance

• Kidlit Authors of Color

• Missing Voice Picture Book Discussion Group

• Binders Full of Picture Book Writers

• Binders Full of Middle Grade Writers

• Black Creators HeadQuarters

Paid Resources and Communities

• Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators

• 12×12 Picture Book Challenge

• Professional Critique Services List (from KidLit411)

• Highlights Foundation

• Kweli: The Color of Children’s Literature Conference

• Inked Voices

• The Authors Guild

For visual learners I created the graphic below that summarizes the steps I took to get published. Enjoy!!!