Understanding your "why" is crucial for anyone considering becoming a children's book author. It helps you navigate the challenges of publishing, whether traditional or self-publishing.

This episode delves into the motivations behind writing children's books, highlighting that most authors are driven by a passion for storytelling rather than financial gain.

Listeners will gain insights into the realities of the publishing world, including the odds of securing a literary agent and the typical sales figures for self-published and traditionally published books.

The discussion also emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement and community support among authors.

With personal anecdotes and experiences, the host shares the joys and challenges of bringing stories to life for young readers.

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Episode 8 – Your Why, Becoming a Children's Book Author

We examine the following in this episode:

•  Know Your Why and How to Focus on Your Why
•  A Few Examples of Continuous Improvement 
• The reasons many of us become Children's Book Authors
• Know there are challenges
• Tradition Publishing or Self-Publishing
• Perception by some regarding self-publishing 
• Costs of a self-published book
• The importance of a website: Review our website to get a feel for it. Once established, make minor value-added improvements (www.kaboosetherockymountainbear.com )     
• Helping each other as children's book authors
• Global Reach

Please purchase a copy of our Children's Book, The Adventures of Kaboose the Rocky Mountain Bear.

Crafting stories for children is an endeavour steeped in love, creativity, and a desire to inspire, as shared in this heartwarming episode.

Rick delves into what drives individuals to become children's book authors, urging listeners to identify their motivations or 'whys.'

This reflective approach is crucial for anyone considering this path, as it helps shape the stories they wish to tell and connect with young audiences.

Through personal narratives and reflections on family experiences, the host illustrates how storytelling can foster connections across generations, mainly through shared adventures with grandchildren.

As the episode unfolds, the host navigates the intricate landscape of children's publishing, weighing the pros and cons of traditional versus self-publishing.

With transparency, Rick discusses aspiring authors' challenges in securing representation and the often modest sales figures associated with both publishing routes.

Despite these challenges, the episode emphasizes the importance of perseverance and community among children's authors.

Rick encourages listeners to leverage digital tools and online platforms to reach wider audiences, reinforcing that storytelling is a communal effort that can resonate globally.

This episode is not just about the technicalities of writing and publishing. Still, it celebrates the joy and fulfillment of sharing stories with children, leaving listeners with purpose and inspiration.

Takeaways:

• Understanding your 'why' is crucial when becoming a children's book author.
• The journey of self-publishing involves learning new skills and overcoming various challenges.
• Revenue from children's book sales, whether traditional or self-published, is often modest.
• Engaging with children and inspiring them to create is a primary motivation for authors.
• Networking with other children's authors can provide valuable support and encouragement in the journey.
• A well-developed website is essential for promoting your book and podcast effectively.

Resources:

SCBWI, Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustratorshttps://www.scbwi.org

Paid Yearly Subscription: There are many grant opportunities you can apply for to support both self-published and traditionally published children's book authors.

Videos of Eevi Jones YouTube ( All things for an aspiring Children's Book Author) Eevi does a terrific job, and recently, thanks to her recommendation, I added a Bookplate to the front of our book, and we are getting rave reviews)