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The Nest


Conflict in Picture Books: If Your Story Doesn’t Have It, It’s Not a Story
Don’t write a children's picture book without it. Build your story around it and watch readers appreciate your story from start to finish.


Consistency: The Key to Writing a Children’s Picture Book Series
Find out which elements in your story should be changed (and remain the same).


Why You Should Create Branded Merchandise to Help Boost Your Book Sales
Learn how your children's picture book can lead to more readers and more profits. Plus, view a list of companies that may help you choose...


New Year, New Children's Picture Book? Here’s How To Get Started
Don’t procrastinate! Get started with fresh ideas for the children’s picture book you've always wanted to write. Photo by Tima...


Top 5 Mistakes Writers Make When Writing a Picture Book
Avoid these writing mishaps to prevent your readers from getting bored with your story


Beta Readers: Who They Are & Why You Need Them
Here’s a clue: They play a major role in determining whether your book hits the mark or misses it altogether.


Walk Away From Your Story: The Writer’s Reset
I’m not saying to completely abandon your masterpiece. It's just that you and your story need to spend some time apart — temporarily.


Stop Writing Picture Books Longer Than 1,000 Words. Here’s Why.
Your picture book might be too long for young readers and listeners. Find out why it may need to be shortened.


Why the Opening Line in Picture Books is Everything: Plus 3 Ways of Writing it
Your readers are smart. Yet their attention spans won’t keep them still for long. So, your book needs to grab their attention. Fast. . .


Read More Picture Books: The First Step Before Writing One
And when I say “read other picture books,” I mean “analyze numerous picture books and dissect them.”


Editor’s Pick: Top 5 Foods + Quick Meal Tips For Writers
Don't worry. You've probably eaten one of these this week to help you get through those tough days of writing without you realizing it.


3 Important Costs You Can't Avoid When Funding Your Picture Book
"As an independent children's picture book author, funding my own book was super easy and cheap" ― said no picture book author ever, most...


What’s the Perfect Drink for Creatives?
Vodka, rum, coffee, and water are all consumed by creatives at some point. But which one gets your creative juices rolling?


Don’t Let Any Relative Critique Your Picture Book — And Here’s Why
Your friends, family, and colleagues may love you. But will they keep it real and give you the feedback you need?
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