Rob Christianson Illustration

I constantly see postings on Craigslist saying an author is looking for an illustrator for their children’s book, but can’t pay anything except promise potential royalities – IF a publisher even takes on their book. (This promise is usually followed by the most insulting line, “but it’ll look great in your portfolio!!” – I wonder if I could use that line next time I go to a nice restaurant?)

If the above sounds like you, let me give you some advice…

When presenting a book to a publisher, the publisher likes to have a say in the illustrator. Therefore, going in with all pages illustrated can be a costly mistake, since the illustrator will expect to be compensated for their work beforehand, in addition to royalties. That’s how it works.

Consider paying for a cover and the first page illustrated, but not the rest. That will give the publisher an idea of your thought on style but they still have freedom to pick their own. AND the illustrator gets paid for their work.

Also, take a look at the book “2011 Children’s Writer’s & Illustrator’s Market” – it’s invaluable and will give you the ins and outs of the publishing industry, as well as publishers address and contact information, and best practices for authors when presenting manuscripts. Some publishers can be very picky.

Tags: author, children's illustrator, childrens book, illustration, publisher