Hey there, book-loving buddies! Today, I’m diving into the wonderful world of children’s book templates. Whether you’re an aspiring children’s book author or someone with a heart full of stories to share, this post is your first step towards crafting a gem of a children’s book. And guess what? You don’t need to be a tech wizard to make it happen. Let’s get our creative juices flowing and explore some of the essentials you’ll need in your toolkit.
Why Use a Children’s Book Template?
Okay, let’s address the elephant in the room: Why even bother with a template? Well, using a children’s book template can be akin to having a roadmap. It works whether you’re a writer-only or a writer/illustrator. I’m not talking about a ready-made book where you plop in your text (and images, if you’re a professional illustrator). I’m talking about a book dummy. A dummy helps streamline your mind while writing, allows for consistency, and keeps everything organized. You’ll see how your pacing is working (or not), whether your page turns work, and whether a point or a joke lands. Plus, if you’re anything like me, having a structured plan can really help when that creative chaos kicks in.
You probably know by now that most traditionally published picture books are 32 pages and hover around the 500 word mark. Look at the dummy maps below I made for a Picture Book Summit presentation called How to Make a Smart Dummy. Use them as a guide to lay out your dummy simply by folding 16 sheets of paper. Number the pages. Then put the text where you think it should go. If you write on stickie notes, you’ll be able to more easily move them around as you edit.
The pink indicates a spread – the black line in the center is the gutter. In a 32-page picture book, you don’t actually have 32 pages for your story. You have 24 pages because 8 are used for the endpapers, copyright, and title page. (and if you find it confusing that they are counting a pasted down page, you are not alone! But it has to do with how the pages are printed.) 24 pages equals 12 spreads – or a two-page view when the book is open. After the Fall by Dan Santat is a good example of this kind of real estate use.
Again, I want to stress that this is for YOU to use to figure out your story. When you sell your manuscript,
unless you have a good reason to fight for a specific layout, the layout will not be up to you.
Remember, your dummy is a tool and should facilitate your creativity, not hinder it. Don’t be afraid to experiment a little and find what feels just right for your story.
Elements of a Strong Children’s Book Dummy
Let’s break down what makes a stellar children’s book template:
- Cover and Title Page: Grab attention immediately with a creative cover.
- Introduction: Set the stage and grab your reader’s curiosity with a captivating beginning.
- Body Pages: Consistency is key. Maintain a balance between text and illustrations.
- Ending: Wrap it up with a memorable conclusion that leaves a lasting impact.
Now, I’ve learned from experience that keeping the narrative clear and engaging, alongside eye-catching illustrations, creates a book that kids won’t want to put down!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make my children’s book template engaging?
Great question! Focus on crafting a relatable story with lovable characters and vibrant illustrations. Make sure your text is easy to understand and complements the images beautifully. I also suggest reading Steps to Writing a Book with Humor and Wisdom for more insights!
Can I use a dummy even if I plan to self-publish?
Absolutely! When you see your text roll out into a dummy it can be a huge eye-opener as to what is working and what isn’t. Whether you choose traditional or self-publishing paths, seeing how your story lays out in a dummy template sets a strong foundation. Check out more about this in my guide on Getting a Children’s Book Published.
Alright, my friends, with these tips and resources at your fingertips, go make some magic happen with your children’s book creation. Happy writing!
