What to do after writing a children’s book (step-by-step guide)
I’ve written a childrens book now what happens?
You’ve written a children’s book. That’s no small thing. But now you’re probably asking yourself:
What do I do after writing a children’s book?
Do you find an illustrator?
Do you contact a publisher?
Do you upload it to Amazon?
If you’re a first-time author, this stage can feel confusing. So here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you move from finished manuscript to professionally illustrated, publish-ready book.
In this guide you’ll learn:
How to refine your manuscript properly
Whether you need an illustrator yet
How many illustrations your book might need
How to publish a children’s book in the UK
What illustration typically costs
The most common mistakes first-time authors make
Step 1: Refine and edit your manuscript
Before you think about illustration or publishing, make sure your manuscript is as strong as possible.
Ask yourself:
Does the story flow naturally?
Are there unnecessary words or repetition?
Does each page move the story forward?
Does the ending feel satisfying?
Read it aloud. Children’s books live and die by rhythm.
If you’re unsure about structure or pacing, this is the stage to get feedback before investing in illustration.
Step 2: Decide how you want to publish
There are two main routes:
Traditional Publishing
You submit your manuscript (without illustrations) to publishers or agents.
If accepted, they will choose the illustrator.
This route is competitive and can take time.
Self-Publishing (Popular with First-Time Authors)
You retain control of:
Illustration style
Layout
Pricing
Timeline
Many first-time authors in the UK choose to self-publish via Amazon KDP because it allows them to bring their book to market faster.
If you're considering this route, see my guide on ‘What is Self-Publishing?’ and ‘How to Self-Publish a Children's Book’.
Step 3: Plan the visual structure of the book
This is where many authors get stuck.
Children’s picture books are typically:
24 pages
32 pages (most common)
Occasionally 40 pages
Illustrations are not just decoration — they are storytelling.
You’ll need to decide:
Will you use full double-page spreads?
Will some pages have spot illustrations?
How many characters appear consistently?
What age range are you targeting?
If you're unsure, see my guide on how many illustrations a children’s book needs (insert internal link).
Not sure how your book should be structured?
If you’d like clarity on:
Page layout
llustration approach
Budget expectations
Publishing route
UPLOAD your manuscript for a no-obligation review.
Step 4: Understand the cost of illustration
Professional children’s book illustration is an investment.
In the UK, a fully illustrated 24–32 page book typically ranges between £2,750 and £6,000, depending on:
Page count
Illustration detail
Number of characters
Background complexity
Layout and publishing support
If you’re budgeting, it’s better to understand this early rather than later.
You can see full pricing guidance here (insert pricing link).
Step 5: Choose the right illustrator
When hiring a children’s book illustrator, look for someone who understands:
Pagination
Print formatting
Typography
Bleed and margins
Amazon KDP requirements
You’re not just hiring someone to draw pictures.
You’re hiring someone to build a book.
If you'd like more detail, see my guide on hiring a children’s book illustrator (insert link).
Step 6: Prepare for publishing
If you’re self-publishing, you’ll need to think about:
Trim size
ISBN (free via Amazon or purchased)
Paperback vs hardback
Print-ready PDF formatting
Cover spine width
This technical side is often overlooked — but it’s crucial for your book to look professional.
Step 7: Think about marketing early
Many first-time authors wait until the book is printed before thinking about marketing.
Start earlier.
Consider:
Building a simple author page
Collecting early reviews
Planning a launch date
Creating social media graphics
Reaching out to local schools or libraries
If you want help with launch visuals, I also design promotional assets that match your book’s style.
The two things most first-time authors forget
1. Pagination & Page Turns
The rhythm of page turns is part of storytelling.
The right illustration placement can enhance surprise, humour and emotion.
2. Budget & Timeline
A professional book takes time.
Most illustration projects take 8–16 weeks depending on scope.
Planning properly avoids rushed decisions.
Frequently asked questions
What do I do after writing a children’s book?
Start by refining your manuscript, then decide whether you want to pursue traditional publishing or self-publishing. From there, plan your illustration structure and budget.
Do I need an illustrator before submitting to publishers?
No. Traditional publishers choose their own illustrators. If self-publishing, you’ll need one.
How much does it cost to illustrate a children’s book in the UK?
Most professionally illustrated 24–32 page books range between £2,500–£6,000 depending on complexity.
Can I self publish a children’s book in the UK?
Yes. Many authors use Amazon KDP to self-publish with full creative control.
How many illustrations does a 32-page book need?
Typically 10–14 double-page spreads, but this depends on pacing and style.
Ready to turn your story into a professional book?
Most first-time authors don’t need more information. They need a clear plan.
Upload your manuscript and I’ll come back with:
✔ Suggested page layout
✔ Illustration approach
✔ Timeline
✔ Transparent pricing
