Editors want different. Here’s how to lean into your oddest ideas.
Write Weird, Write Wild: Embracing the Quirky in Picture Books
Editors are on the lookout for the unconventional. Here’s how to harness your most peculiar ideas.
Have you ever paused mid-draft and thought, Is this idea just too out there? If so, you’re in promising territory.
In the vibrant world of picture books, it’s often the quirkiest tales that capture the hearts of readers and the attention of discerning editors. Embracing the unconventional can set your story apart in a crowded market.
But how do you strike the right balance between weird and wonderful? Let’s delve into three recent picture books that have masterfully embraced their quirks:
We Are Definitely Human by X. Fang
When three peculiar visitors from “Europe” crash-land in Mr. Li’s field, they insist they’re just like everyone else. Their odd behaviors and misunderstandings lead to humorous situations, but the townsfolk’s acceptance shines through. This tale celebrates kindness and the beauty of embracing those who are different.
Takeaway for Writers: Infuse your narrative with humor and heart. Quirky characters can effectively convey messages of acceptance and understanding.
Something’s Wrong! A Bear, a Hare, and Some Underwear by Jory John,illustrated by Erin Kraan
Jeff the bear feels off but can’t pinpoint why. Unbeknownst to him, he’s donned a pair of underwear—a rarity for bears. His friend Anders the hare gently points out the mishap, leading to humorous and endearing moments. This tale highlights friendship and the importance of honest communication.
Takeaway for Writers: Embrace situational comedy rooted in character experiences. Everyday mishaps can be transformed into engaging stories with the right twist.
Bathe the Cat by Alice B. McGinty,illustrated by David Roberts
This book is pure picture book mayhem.
A family attempts to clean the house before Grandma arrives…but the cat scrambles the chore list. Literal chaos ensues as the list turns more nonsensical with every page turn:
Vacuum the dishes! Mop the cat! Feed the floor!
The premise? Ridiculous.
The execution? Genius.
Kids love the escalating silliness, wordplay, and logic-defying scenes.
Lesson for writers: Give yourself permission to push one strange idea as far as it can go.
Why Weird Wins in Picture Books
→ Kids love absurdity. They are the original weirdos.
→ Weird = Memorable. The stranger the concept (with heart + craft behind it), the more editors take notice.
→ Weird doesn’t mean random. It means intentional originality with purpose.
→ Weird books invite illustrators to play big.
→ Weird ideas often open the door to universal themes like acceptance, bravery, family, or creativity.
Tips for Crafting Your Own Quirky Tale
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Start with the Familiar, Then Twist It: Ground your story in a relatable setting or situation, then introduce an unexpected element to create intrigue.
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Develop Endearing Characters: Readers connect with characters who, despite their oddities, exhibit genuine emotions and motivations.
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Balance Humor with Heart: While quirkiness often lends itself to humor, ensure your story also offers emotional depth. Make sure your strangeness serves your story’s heart. That’s what makes the weird land.
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Think Visually: Provide room for visual storytelling. Sometimes, the quirkiest elements come alive through illustrations.
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Trust Your Instincts: If your story makes you chuckle or warms your heart, chances are it will resonate with others too.
Final Thought: The Market Wants You to Be Weird
Editors aren’t tired of originality — they’re begging for it.
Kids don’t crave safe — they crave surprise.
Your oddest idea might feel too out-there.
But maybe…it’s exactly the thing that will make an editor say:
“I’ve never seen anything like this.”
Write weird.
Write wild.
Write the story only you could tell.
