If you’re an aspiring author or illustrator, this is your time. Don’t let self-doubt or fear of failure stop you from following your dreams. Remember that every published author, whether they’re a household name or an emerging voice, started exactly where you are right now. So, here are some words of encouragement to keep you going through every step of your creative journey.
1. Start Where You Are, with What You Have
As an aspiring author or illustrator, it’s easy to look at other successful creators and feel like you’re “behind” or that you’re not measuring up. But remember: everyone starts somewhere. The most important thing is to start.
How to Begin:
Write daily or draw regularly: Establish a habit. Even if it’s just a few sentences or a quick sketch each day, consistency will keep you moving forward.
Work with what you’ve got: You don’t need fancy tools to begin. Whether it’s pen and paper or a basic writing app, get started with the resources you have and build from there.
The first step is often the hardest, but once you begin, the creative process will start to take shape.
2. Embrace the Power of Rejection
Every successful author or illustrator has faced rejection at some point. In fact, it’s often part of the journey. Rejection doesn’t mean your work isn’t good; it simply means it wasn’t the right fit at that moment. Don’t let “no” be your stopping point – let it fuel your determination to keep improving and keep trying.
How to Handle Rejection:
See it as a learning opportunity: Ask for feedback whenever possible, and use it to enhance your craft.
Develop thick skin: Rejection is inevitable in this field, but with each “no,” you grow stronger and more resilient.
Don’t take it personally: Editors, agents, and publishers are looking for what fits their current needs – they’re not rejecting you as a person or your creativity.
The road to success in writing and illustration is rarely linear, but each step, including the setbacks, takes you closer to your goal.
3. Celebrate Your Small Wins
It’s easy to get caught up in the end goal – whether it’s securing a publishing deal, seeing your book on the shelves, or winning an award. But don’t forget to celebrate the small wins along the way. Every chapter you write, every illustration you finish, every submission you send out is an accomplishment worth recognizing.
How to Celebrate Your Progress:
Keep a progress journal where you can track your milestones, no matter how small.
Share your successes with a trusted friend, family member, or fellow writer or illustrator.
Take time to reflect on how far you’ve come, even when the journey feels long.
Recognizing and celebrating these moments will keep you motivated and remind you that you are making meaningful strides toward your dream.
4. Stay True to Your Voice
There will always be trends, market demands, and advice about what sells. While it’s essential to understand the industry, never lose sight of your unique voice. You have something special to offer the world – a perspective, a style, a message that only you can share.
How to Find Your Voice:
Write from your heart: Don’t try to write what you think others want to hear. Instead, focus on what you feel passionate about, what excites you, and what matters most to you.
Experiment with different styles and formats: Play with your writing and illustration styles to find what feels authentic and fulfilling to you.
Be honest: Write the stories that only you can tell, with the authenticity that can’t be replicated.
Your voice is your strength. Embrace it and use it to create the stories that only you can tell.
5. Don’t Compare Yourself to Others
In the creative world, it’s easy to compare your work to that of others. With social media and public platforms, it might feel like everyone is getting ahead while you’re still trying to find your footing. But the truth is, every journey is unique. Success takes time, and it looks different for everyone.
How to Stay Focused on Your Journey:
Limit social media: Spend more time working on your craft than scrolling through others’ accomplishments.
Find a support group: Surround yourself with fellow aspiring authors and illustrators who encourage you and offer constructive support.
Trust your own timeline: You are on your own path, and it’s okay to move at your own pace. Celebrate your progress, and remember that comparison only slows you down.
Your creative journey is just that – yours. Keep your focus on your path and your own growth, not on where others are.
6. Keep Growing and Learning
The world of children’s books is ever-evolving, and so is the craft of writing and illustrating. Stay curious, continue to explore new techniques, and never stop learning. Whether it’s through reading widely, attending workshops, or seeking feedback, the learning process never ends.
How to Continue Your Growth:
Read books in various genres: This helps you stay informed about trends and gives you new ideas for your own work.
Take courses and attend conferences: Join workshops and seminars that focus on both writing and illustrating.
Seek feedback: Share your work with peers, mentors, or critique groups to get valuable insights and improve.
Every great writer and illustrator continues to evolve, and so can you. Keep challenging yourself, refining your skills, and pushing your creative boundaries.
7. Trust the Process
Lastly, remember that the journey of becoming a successful author or illustrator isn’t about achieving instant success – it’s about trusting the process and enjoying the ride. You may not see immediate results, but every step is helping you grow and develop the tools you need for long-term success.
How to Trust the Process:
Be patient with yourself: Success takes time, and creative progress isn’t always linear.
Celebrate the small steps: Even if you haven’t landed your dream deal yet, you’re still gaining experience, learning, and improving.
Enjoy the creative process: Focus on the joy of creating, telling stories, and expressing yourself through your art.
Success will come, but only if you keep pushing forward and trusting that each word and every sketch is moving you toward your goal.
To all the aspiring authors and illustrators out there: Your dream is possible. The world needs your stories, your illustrations, and your voice. Don’t give up, even on the tough days. With passion, patience, and persistence, you’ll get there. Every writer and illustrator has faced challenges, but it’s your resilience and commitment to your craft that will carry you through.
As you continue your creative journey, remember: You are capable. You are unique. Your voice matters.
Keep creating, keep believing in yourself, and most importantly, enjoy the ride. The world is waiting for your stories.
Choosing a publisher is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make as an author. You’ve poured your heart into writing your manuscript, and now you need a partner who will help bring your book to life in a way that honors your vision and protects your interests.
The problem? Many first-time authors don’t know what questions to ask until it’s too late. They sign contracts without fully understanding the terms, only to discover hidden fees, disappointing royalty structures, or services that fall far short of what was promised.
This isn’t about being suspicious or confrontational. It’s about doing your homework. Any reputable publisher will welcome these questions and answer them clearly and thoroughly. If a publisher gets defensive or evasive when you ask for details, that’s a red flag worth paying attention to.
Here are 11 essential questions every author should ask before signing on the dotted line.
This should be your first question, and the answer should always be the same: you do.
Your copyright is your ownership of the work you created. A legitimate publisher should never ask you to transfer your copyright to them. You’re giving them permission to publish your book, not ownership of your intellectual property.
Red flag: Any publisher asking you to sign over your copyright should be avoided. Full stop.
What to look for: Clear contract language stating that you retain 100% copyright ownership.
With Page Publishing: You maintain full copyright ownership of your book, now and always, ensuring your continued control over how your work is used and presented.
2. What Are the Total Upfront Costs, and What Exactly Am I Paying For?
Publishing a book costs money. Whether those costs come from the publisher’s pocket (traditional publishing) or yours (self-publishing or hybrid publishing), someone is paying for editing, design, printing setup, and distribution.
The key is transparency. You deserve to know exactly what you’re paying for and what’s included.
Red flags: Vague pricing like “minimal investment” without specifics, or discovering surprise fees after you’ve already signed a contract.
With Page Publishing: We offer comprehensive publishing packages designed to suit a wide range of author needs. Whether you want essential publishing services or more extensive marketing and distribution support, you can choose a package that fits your goals and budget. You can review all package details, including what’s included at each level, on our website:
3. What Is Your Royalty Structure, and When Do I Start Earning 100% of Profits?
Royalty structures vary wildly across publishers. Some traditional publishers might give you 10-15% of net proceeds. Some self-publishing services take 40-60% of every sale forever. Others offer more author-friendly terms.
You need to understand not just the percentage, but how long those terms last and what happens to your earnings over time.
What to look for: A clear explanation of how royalties are calculated, what percentage the publisher takes, and whether those terms change over time.
Questions to ask:
Do I earn back my investment before the publisher takes their share?
What percentage does the publisher keep after I’ve recouped my costs?
Are there different royalty rates for paperback, hardcover, and eBook formats?
With Page Publishing: You receive 100% of the profit generated from each sale until you have recouped your entire publishing investment. After you’ve reached that point, Page retains only 20 cents per book sold, allowing you to keep the vast majority of royalties over the long term.
4. What Level of Editing Is Included?
Not all editing is created equal. Understanding what type of editing you’re receiving helps you know what to expect and whether you might need additional editorial support before submission.
Different types of editing serve different purposes:
Developmental editing focuses on big-picture issues like plot, structure, and character development
Line editing improves flow, style, and readability at the sentence level
Copyediting fixes grammar, punctuation, spelling, and consistency
Proofreading catches final typos and formatting issues
What to look for: Clear explanation of which type(s) of editing are included in your package.
Questions to ask:
What type of editing do you provide?
Is it developmental, line editing, copyediting, or proofreading?
How many rounds of editing are included?
Will I have an opportunity to review and approve changes?
With Page Publishing: Your dedicated copy editor will give your manuscript a thorough polish, reviewing grammar, spelling, word choice, sentence flow, and consistency, while following the Chicago Manual of Style to ensure professional quality. You’ll have the opportunity to review every edit and approve or decline any changes before the manuscript moves forward.
5. Where Will My Book Be Distributed, and How Does That Process Work?
Getting your book printed is only half the battle. You need it to actually reach readers, which means distribution matters enormously.
Some publishers only upload to Amazon. Others work with major distributors like Ingram, which means your book can be ordered by bookstores and libraries nationwide.
What to look for: Specific distribution channels and retailers where your book will be available.
Questions to ask:
Will my book be available through Ingram?
Can bookstores order it?
Will it appear on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other major retailers?
What about international distribution?
With Page Publishing:Your printed book will be available through Ingram, one of the world’s leading book wholesalers. This gives bookstores and libraries the ability to order your title through their standard purchasing systems. Ingram also offers international reach, making your book available to retailers and libraries in markets such as the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, and beyond.
Pro tip: While placement is always at a librarian’s discretion, many local libraries enjoy supporting community authors and will often consider adding locally written books to their collections.
6. Do You Reject Any Manuscripts, and If So, Why?
This might seem like an odd question, but it’s actually really important. Publishers who accept every single manuscript that comes through the door, regardless of quality, often provide little to no quality control or meaningful editorial guidance.
A publisher that maintains some standards and occasionally says “this isn’t ready yet” or “this isn’t a good fit for us” is usually a better partner than one that rubber-stamps everything.
What to look for: Evidence that the publisher has quality standards and won’t publish just anything.
Questions to ask:
What percentage of submitted manuscripts do you accept?
What are the common reasons you reject manuscripts?
Do you provide feedback if you decline a manuscript?
With Page Publishing: We review every manuscript to ensure it’s a good fit for our program and meets basic publishing standards. We don’t require a fully edited or finalized document—that’s part of the service we provide—but we do look for a manuscript that is complete, clearly written, and thoughtfully organized. Our goal is to partner with authors who are ready to bring their work to the world professionally.
While we work with writers at many different experience levels, we do not accept manuscripts that include hate speech or content that violates our publishing guidelines.
In short: if your manuscript reflects genuine effort and a clear vision, we’re here to help you transform it into a finished book you can be proud of.
7. What Marketing Support Is Included vs. What Costs Extra?
Here’s where things can get tricky. Many publishers blur the line between what’s included in your package and what they’ll try to upsell you on later.
Basic distribution (making your book available for sale) is not the same as marketing (actively promoting your book to drive sales). You need to understand what comes standard and what requires additional investment.
What to look for: A clear breakdown of included services versus optional paid marketing packages.
Red flags: Publishers who make unrealistic promises about bestseller lists or guaranteed sales numbers. No one can promise your book will be a bestseller.
Questions to ask:
What marketing services are included in my package?
What marketing options are available for an additional fee?
With Page Publishing: Every publishing package includes the essential steps needed to prepare and launch your book: copy editing, page and cover design, printing setup, eBook conversion, and distribution. Each package also includes a foundational marketing component, such as a professionally written press release, online listings, and guidance on promoting your book.
For authors who want more support, we offer optional marketing packages that expand your reach through additional services like advertising, targeted promotions, and enhanced media outreach. This allows you to choose the level of marketing that matches your goals and budget.
Audiobooks can also be added as an optional upgrade, giving your book a presence in multiple formats.
8. How Long Is the Contract Term, and What Are My Rights After It Ends?
Some publishing contracts last for a specific period (like 3-5 years), while others are perpetual or only end when the book goes out of print (which might never happen in the age of print-on-demand).
You need to understand what you’re committing to and what happens when the contract ends.
What to look for: Clear language about contract duration and rights reversion.
Questions to ask:
How long does this contract last?
Can I renew or end it at that point?
What happens to my book files, ISBN, and cover design when the contract ends?
Do my rights automatically revert to me?
With Page Publishing: Our contracts are intentionally short and author-friendly. We use a two-year contract term, and when that period ends, you can simply renew if you’d like to continue. Most importantly, you always retain full rights to your work. We don’t acquire your copyright, so there’s nothing to “revert” when the contract ends. Your book is yours at every stage.
When it comes to assets, the ISBN remains with Page Publishing, since it’s issued under our publishing imprint, but your book files are always accessible in your author portal. You can download them anytime, and if you ever need the production files (like the InDesign package), our team can provide them upon request.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN
9. What Formats Will My Book Be Available In?
Understanding which formats your book will be published in helps you reach different types of readers. Some people prefer physical books, while others exclusively read eBooks or listen to audiobooks.
What to look for: Clear information about which formats are included in your package and which might be additional options.
Questions to ask:
Will my book be available in paperback, hardcover, eBook, and audiobook formats?
Are all formats included, or do some cost extra?
How long does it take to produce each format?
With Page Publishing: Your book will be published in both a print format and an eBook format. Every author chooses whether they prefer a paperback or hardcover edition for their print version, and you may upgrade to offer both formats if you’d like wider availability. Your printed book will feature a glossy, full-color cover with professional binding. We also provide complimentary copies for events, signings, or personal use.
In addition to print, we convert your manuscript into ePub and AZW formats so it can appear on Apple Books, Amazon Kindle, Barnes & Noble Nook, and all major eBook platforms.
Audiobooks are available as an optional upgrade for authors who want to expand into other formats.
10. How Long Does the Publishing Process Typically Take?
Knowing the timeline helps you plan book launches, marketing efforts, and manage your expectations throughout the process.
What to look for: A realistic timeline from manuscript submission to books being available for sale.
Questions to ask:
What are the major milestones in the publishing process?
How long does editing typically take?
When will I see cover designs?
How long from final approval to books being available on retailer websites?
With Page Publishing: Most books progress from manuscript to retail availability in 6–8 months, and we aim to keep all projects within a 10-month timeline. Actual timing depends on factors such as revision cycles, author response times, and project details. Our publishing process moves through clear milestones, including editing, interior layout, cover design, author review, and final production, so authors always know where they are in the publishing journey.
11. Will I Have a Dedicated Point of Contact Throughout the Process?
Publishing a book involves many moving parts: editing, design, production, distribution, and marketing. Authors often feel lost when they’re passed from department to department with no one person truly responsible for their project.
Some vanity publishers rely on generic email inboxes or rotating support teams, which can leave authors repeating themselves or struggling to get consistent answers. A lack of personalized guidance is one of the most common pain points authors report.
What to look for: A clear explanation of who your main point of contact will be, how communication works, and whether you’ll have someone to guide you through the entire process.
Questions to ask:
Will I be assigned a dedicated coordinator or project manager?
How often will I hear from them?
Can I speak to someone by phone if needed?
Will I have access to my project’s status and files?
With Page Publishing: Every author is assigned a dedicated Publication Coordinator who guides you through each stage of the publishing process. You’ll always know who to contact, and you’ll have a consistent, knowledgeable partner who understands your book and your goals. Plus, you’ll have full access to your project files and workflow through your personalized Author Portal, so you’re never left wondering where things stand.
Recognizing Common Pitfalls in Vanity Publishing Contracts
Understanding typical traps – financial and legal – prepares you to avoid permanently damaging your publishing journey.
Excessive fees are the most obvious pitfall. Vanity publishers often charge $10,000 to $40,000 for services that self-published authors can obtain for $3,000 to $7,000 by hiring freelancers directly. The markup funds the publisher’s profit, not superior quality.
Rights grabs occur when publishers demand broad, long-term rights without corresponding investment or effort. Life-of-copyright clauses – where the publisher controls your work for your entire life plus 70 years – are particularly dangerous in vanity contracts. Unlike traditional publishers who actively promote backlist titles, vanity presses often abandon books after initial publication, leaving your rights tied up indefinitely with no benefit.
Delayed or withheld royalties result from net-profit calculations and high recoupment thresholds. Many authors never receive royalty payments because the publisher claims costs haven’t been recovered, even after years.
Forced purchases of unsold books financially exploit authors. Some contracts require authors to buy minimum quantities of their own books at inflated prices, sometimes as a condition of contract termination. According to industry watchdogs, authors have been pressured to purchase thousands of dollars of their own inventory to end unproductive relationships.
Inadequate marketing support is nearly universal in vanity publishing. Despite promises of “comprehensive promotion,” most vanity publishers provide only token efforts – a website listing, a press release sent to a generic database – leaving authors to handle all meaningful marketing themselves.
Option clauses and non-compete provisions tie up future works. Some vanity contracts include “right of first refusal” clauses requiring you to offer your next book to the same publisher, or non-compete clauses preventing you from publishing similar work elsewhere.
Take Your Time and Make an Informed Decision
Asking these questions isn’t about being difficult or distrustful. It’s about being a smart businessperson. Publishing a book is an investment of your time, money, and creative energy. You deserve to make that investment with full information.
Different publishers offer different services and business models. Traditional publishers, hybrid publishers, and self-publishing services each have their own approaches. The key is finding the right fit for your book, your budget, and your goals.
Take notes on the answers you receive. Compare your options side by side. And remember: you’re not just choosing someone to print your book. You’re choosing a partner for your publishing journey. Choose the option that feels right for you.
Your book deserves it. And so do you.
Have questions about how Page Publishing answers these questions? We believe in complete transparency throughout the publishing process. Visit our FAQ page to learn more about our services, royalty structure, contract terms, and what you can expect when you publish with us. We’re here to answer your questions honestly and help you make the best decision for your book.
Empathy—the ability to understand and share the feelings of others—is one of the most important social-emotional skills a child can develop. It lays the groundwork for kindness, cooperation, and inclusive thinking. One of the most effective and natural ways to cultivate empathy in children is through reading, especially stories that reflect the wide range of human experiences found around the world.
Multicultural books expose young readers to different cultures, perspectives, and life situations, helping them see the world through someone else’s eyes. These stories don’t just inform—they create emotional connections that build lasting understanding.
1. Seeing the World Through Another Lens
When children read about characters who live in different countries, celebrate different traditions, or speak different languages, they’re invited to step into someone else’s shoes. These stories give young readers the chance to explore daily life in communities very different from their own.
Through this lens, children begin to realize that while we may live in different places or follow different customs, we all experience emotions like joy, fear, hope, and love. That recognition is the heart of empathy.
2. Making the Unfamiliar Familiar
Multicultural books take what might seem “foreign” or “different” and present it in a relatable, human way. A story about a child fasting during Ramadan, dancing during Diwali, or starting school in a new country helps demystify unfamiliar experiences.
As children connect with characters emotionally—laughing with them, worrying for them, celebrating their triumphs—the perceived distance between “us” and “them” begins to shrink. The more stories children read that feature diverse voices, the more they come to understand and appreciate the richness of human diversity.
3. Challenging Stereotypes Through Nuanced Storytelling
Children are impressionable, and stories play a large role in shaping their perceptions of people and places. Well-written multicultural books portray characters with depth and individuality, rather than relying on clichés or simplified tropes.
These nuanced portrayals help dismantle stereotypes by showing the complexity and uniqueness of different cultures and identities. When young readers see a wide variety of experiences within a single community, they’re less likely to make generalizations and more likely to approach others with openness.
4. Developing Emotional Intelligence
Books that evoke empathy also help children develop emotional intelligence—the ability to recognize and understand emotions in themselves and others. When a child reads about a character facing challenges like immigration, language barriers, or being misunderstood, they begin to identify those feelings and develop the emotional vocabulary to talk about them.
This awareness makes children more compassionate friends, classmates, and future leaders.
5. Preparing Children for a Diverse World
Today’s children are growing up in a global society. Their classrooms, neighborhoods, and future workplaces are likely to include people from many different backgrounds. Reading multicultural stories helps prepare them to thrive in diverse environments by teaching them how to listen, learn, and relate with empathy.
The earlier we introduce children to global perspectives, the more comfortable and confident they’ll be in engaging with the world around them.
Multicultural books do more than reflect the world—they help shape it. When young readers encounter stories that celebrate differences and highlight shared humanity, they grow into people who are not only informed, but also deeply compassionate. By filling bookshelves with stories from many voices and cultures, we give children the tools they need to build bridges, not walls—and to lead with empathy in whatever path they choose
