When writing picture books or any fiction for that matter, many of us learn from doing. We go to courses, read books, listen to editors and accomplished writers. There is always something new to learn, whatever level you are at.

In that spirit, here is a collection of articles from the Internet where different authors have commented on writing picture books. Their advice / suggestions are typically based on what works for them. So as a reader you have to think about how it applies to you. While some basic wisdom applies to all, the power of creativity is to know when to break the rules. That’s when it moves from being a science into an art-form.

So here are some interesting and informative articles I put together. If you have your own secret links, do share on this blog post with the rest of the world. The links below are in no particular order.

Also remember there are some market differences. While British editors prefer to see manuscripts that span 12 spreads, Americans editors look for 13.5. As these articles from the US, UK and Australia, do make sure you still follow the guidelines of the publisher you are interested in. At the end of the day, there is no alternative to good research and good writing.

http://www.ianbone.com.au/pdfs/PictureBook_IanBone.pdf

http://www.marisamontes.com/writing_picture_books.htm

http://www.memfox.com/so-you-want-to-write-a-picture-book.html

http://www.wordpool.co.uk/wfc/art/wfcpicturebooks.htm

http://www.robynopie.com/articles/writingforchildren_howtowritepicturebooks.htm

30 Days to a Stronger Picture Book

http://www.booktrust.org.uk/writing/writing-tips/36

http://www.wow-womenonwriting.com/27-FE2-HowToWritePictureBook.html

http://www.leeandlow.com/p/20tips.mhtml

http://marilynsinger.net/onwriting/what-makes-a-good-young-picture-book/

http://www.denisevega.com/2012/12/19/writing-picture-books-short-sweet/