To Illustrate or Not to Illustrate, That is the Question
On the surface, at least to me, this was a question that seemed to have a simple answer. I would think it would be better to have the book illustrated book I submit it, otherwise it would be an incomplete children’s picture book. I mean, what’s a picture book with the pictures? However, having bad experiences in the past assuming things I decided I should research to find out if my assumptions were correct.
As I mentioned previously, I wrote this story a few years back and between then and now I have looked for that answer. Not knowing anything or anyone in the publishing field finding that answer proved more difficult than I imagined. I kept getting conflicting answers on a 50/50 mark of yes and no. So I kept looking, kept researching and I finally found an answer from a reputable source – no, most publishers do not want the book illustrated before submittal.
As it turned out, not assuming and finding out the real answer is beneficial. While a publisher may not reject my submittal with illustrations already completed knowing how they prefer a submittal shows I listen to them. It shows manners and a respect for the publisher. One of the lessons I have learned is that the writer doesn’t just write and the publisher does everything else. It’s a symbiotic relationship, the author and publisher work together to achieve the best result. And this is what I want to do, achieve the best result possible.
Knowledge and Perseverance
In finding out whether to illustrate the book before submittal or not I actually accepted two important details. The first is knowledge is a good and powerful thing. Seeking out the answer to the question made me more knowledgeable about the publishing industry. This in turn will help me as I pursue getting my book published. It shows I care and am more serious about my book. Even if my book gets rejected at least I can take pride in approaching it professionally. This will be because I didn’t assume but looked to be knowledgeable.
The second detail is that perseverance matters. As I mentioned, I had been looking for the answer for a few years and seemed to get no where. Yet, I didn’t give up and I didn’t just figure I’d decide on my own. I knew the real answer existed and so I continued to research until I found it. Perseverance is not a word many like but it really does pay off in the end.
These lessons do not just apply to children’s book but to all of life. Rarely is it good to assume and rarely is it good to give up. Knowledge and perseverance are highly beneficial. It is sad that many do not value them as they should. When you are out there pursuing life gain the knowledge you need, never assume. Don’t think you know how to open your parachute, listen to your instructor. Your life may depend on it. And when you are running your first 5K don’t stop just because you don’t “feel” like running anymore. Unless your body is about to shut down keep running, persevere, a life of goals achieved is better than a life of goals quit on. You got this.
Attempt it. Chance it. Try it. Get to It![/cs_text][/cs_column][/cs_row][/cs_section]