Thank you for considering submitting your copywritten picture book manuscript to us! We are passionate about discovering fresh voices and engaging stories that can captivate young readers and encourage a love of reading. Please review the following guidelines to ensure your submission is considered.

 

1. Submission Format

• Manuscript: Submit your manuscript double-spaced. Include page numbers in the footer.

• Length: Picture book manuscripts should generally be between 500 and 1,000 words. Please be mindful of your target age group when considering the length.

• File Type: Submit your manuscript as a Word document (.doc or .docx) or a PDF file.

• Cover Letter: Include a brief cover letter that introduces yourself, your background, and your connection to children’s literature. Mention any previous publications or relevant experiences (if applicable).

 

2. Target Age Group

• We accept picture books for children ages 0-8 years old.

  • Board Books (ages 0-3): Simple, repetitive, and interactive stories.

  • Early Readers (ages 4-7): Stories that build reading confidence with a simple plot and straightforward language.

  • Classic Picture Books (ages 3-8): Engaging, emotional, or educational stories, often with underlying themes or messages.

 

3. Originality & Style

• We are looking for original, creative stories with a unique voice that will capture the imagination of children.

• Strong characters, engaging plots, and visual storytelling are important in picture books. Your manuscript should have elements that make it compelling for both the child reader and the adult reading aloud.

• Please avoid overly didactic or preachy stories. We want books that delight and inspire curiosity, rather than lecture.

 

4. Illustrator Notes

• Illustrator notes (e.g., detailed descriptions of the illustrations, page layouts, or specific visual elements) should only be included if they are absolutely essential to the story. We are primarily concerned with the manuscript itself, but will consider suggestions for visual elements that enhance the narrative.

• If you have a specific illustrator in mind or are submitting as a team, please mention this in your cover letter.

 

5. Theme & Content

• We are open to a wide range of themes—fun, adventure, friendship, exploration, family, or learning are all great themes.

• Content should be age-appropriate, free from offensive language, inappropriate themes, or controversial topics for young children.

• Diversity & Inclusion: We welcome stories featuring diverse characters, settings, and experiences, ensuring that children from all backgrounds feel seen and represented.

 

6. Rejections & Responses

• Due to the volume of submissions, we may take up to 3 months to respond.

• If we do not respond within this time frame, please assume your submission has not been selected.

• We regret that we cannot offer feedback on rejected manuscripts due to the high volume of submissions.

 

7. Simultaneous Submissions

• Simultaneous submissions are allowed. If your manuscript is accepted elsewhere, please notify us as soon as possible.

 

8. How to Submit

• Please send your submission via email to [littlehandsbooks@gmail.com] with the subject line: Picture Book Submission: [Your Manuscript Title].

• In the body of your email, include:

  • A brief introduction of your manuscript (max 2-3 sentences).

  • Attach your manuscript as a Word document or PDF file.

  • Attach your cover letter as a separate document.

 

9. Collaborative Works

• If your manuscript is accepted, specific details will be provided in the offer letter.

 

10. Additional Notes

• We are not currently accepting unsolicited illustrator portfolios. Please only submit manuscripts at this time.

• If you are submitting a manuscript that has already been published, it must be substantially revised or a completely new work.

 

We look forward to reading your submission and thank you for sharing your creativity with us. Best of luck with your writing!