Why Picture Book Authors Make the Best Marketers

Guest Post by Chelsea Tornetto

Marketing is the part of being an author that most people dread.  “I love to write!  I’m just not very good at the marketing part,” is something I hear over and over from my fellow kid lit creators. 

But did you know that many of the same skills you use to WRITE a great children’s book can also help you market it?

Here are five picture book writing skills that can make you a master at marketing:

SKILL #1: Picture book writers know that a picture is worth a thousand words.  

Just as great illustrations draw readers into the story, sharing pictures on social media is a great way to get potential customers to engage with and follow you. 

• Post photos of your workspace or favorite writing snack. 
• Share snapshots of your book on the shelves at local stores or being read by fans. 
• Track down and scan old photos of yourself as a young reader or writer. 
• Share sneak peaks of illustrations in progress. 

Basically, keep your social media posts image focused, just like your manuscript, and you can’t go wrong. 

Another way to use the power of pictures to help your marketing efforts is to make sure your press kit, press releases, and other marketing materials have clear and professional images.  Spend a few extra bucks to have those professional headshots taken!  The investment will pay off each time you reach out to a news outlet or influencer.  

SKILL #2: Picture books writers know the power of a repeated refrain.

There’s an old saying in marketing circles that a prospective buyer needs to hear or see your product or message seven times before they’ll take action to buy it.  Luckily, picture book writers already know how powerful repetition can be! 

Just as you might use a repeated line or refrain throughout a picture book text, (“Are You My Mother?”) don’t be afraid to be a bit repetitive in your marketing strategies.

“But I just posted about my book last week!” That’s okay, do it again!

Already shared the cover reveal?  Add a brief bio of the illustrator and share it again! 

Repeat that refrain until your potential customers know it by heart!

SKILL #3: Picture book writers know that a great story has a consistent theme. 

Picture books are my favorite form of writing because they convey a single, powerful message in such a short space.  Marketing a book is much the same!  You want to focus your followers’ attention on your book, and you often have only a few seconds to do it.

In order for our marketing efforts to make an impact, they need to be cohesive and consistent. 

SKILL #4: Picture book writers know that interactivity boosts engagement.

The best and most memorable picture books get the reader involved in the story.  Whether it’s finding hidden symbols in an illustration, counting items on a page or simply turning the pages to get to the monster at the end of the book, readers love to be a part of the story. 

Potential customers are no different!  Look for ways to allow your followers to get involved. 

• Post a poll asking them to help you choose a character’s name. 
• Share a photo of your favorite reading spot and ask them to share theirs.
• Invite them to participate in an art or coloring contest connected to your book. 

The more you interact with your fans, the more fans you’ll eventually have. 

SKILL #5: Picture book writers know that you MUST build tension to the climax!

In this case, the climax is the release of your newest book.  And because building tension takes time, good picture book writers make sure they start early! 

To get people excited, start promoting your new release at least six months in advance of the release date. 

Share sneak peaks of the illustration process, videos of the arrival of your first author copies, or even photos of the spot your book WILL be situated when it hits the shelves at the local bookstore. Share that sense of anticipation with your readers so they can feel it too!

And don’t be afraid to share your struggles!  Nothing builds tension like a setback or failure that the main character has to overcome.  Be authentic and you’ll find that your readers will be cheering for you to succeed.

So, the next time you find yourself doubting your marketing prowess, don’t sell yourself short! You’ve already got all the right tools in your toolbox.