Step 1: Understand Your Audience

Early readers are typically aged up to around 8 years old and fall into two categories (0-4 and 4-8). The former is mainly made up of very simple language and lots of pictures. The latter is just transitioning from picture books and needs:

• Simple sentence structure
• Repetition to build confidence
• Phonetic language to support decoding
• Relatable characters (often children or animals)
• Big, bold illustrations that support the text

Think about stories involving everyday situations i.e. first day at school, losing a tooth, making a friend and give them a sprinkle of fun or magic.

Step 2: Write with Rhythm and Purpose

Keep it:

• Short and snappy: Aim for 300–800 words.
• Predictable: Repeating sentence structures like “The cat sat on the…” help new readers anticipate and learn.
• Phonetically friendly: Choose words that match phonics schemes (CVC words: cat, dog, pen).
• Illustration-aware: Write scenes that can be shown clearly in pictures.

 Tip: Read it aloud. If it’s fun to say, it’ll be fun to read.

Step 3: Plan Your Illustrations

You can:

• Draw your own illustrations if you’re artistic.
• Hire an illustrator if using a publisher, they will be able to source an illustrator for you.
• Use AI illustration tools (like Canva, Adobe Express, or even AI art generators) — many offer free or low-cost options.
• Public domain artwork can sometimes be adapted if you’re writing a story around classic themes.

A 36-page book typically includes 15-17 full spreads plus a front and back cover.

Step 4: Format Your Book

Tools like Canva, BookWright (by Blurb), or Affinity Publisher allow you to create print-ready layouts. Canva even has children’s book templates you can tweak easily.

Stick to standard trim sizes for children’s books: 8.5″ x 8.5″ or 6″ x 9″ to keep printing costs low.

Step 5: Printing

For short runs or one-offs:

• Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing): Free to use, print-on-demand, and distributes to Amazon. No upfront costs.
• Lulu: Great for square formats, also print-on-demand.
• Blurb: Good quality, offers discounts, and useful for full-colour books.

For bulk printing (if you want to sell locally or at events):

• Mixam or IngramSpark offer good deals if you print 50+ copies.
• Local printers might match online prices, and you avoid shipping costs.

Pro tip: Always order a proof copy before printing in bulk.

Step 6: Distribute and Sell

Digital & Online:

• List your book on Amazon KDP; they handle printing, postage, and customer service.
• Offer an ebook version for tablets and phones.
• Create a simple website or landing page with links to buy.

Local & Personal:

• Sell at school fairs, library events, indie bookshops, or book fayres.
• Offer signed copies via your social media.
• Use Printify or Printful to create accompanying merchandise like bookmarks or colouring pages.

Offer a read-aloud video on YouTube or social media to promote it for free.

Final Thought

To ensure your book is produced to the best possible quality, consider using a publishing firm like The Book Chief who has illustrators and designers, who can create your vision and iron out all of the issues that sometimes arise through using publishing platforms.

Amazon KDP is the go-to for many indie authors. Its biggest strength lies in its massive customer base and seamless integration with the Kindle Store and Amazon’s global marketplaces. KDP is user-friendly, with free setup, and pays royalties of up to 70% for eBooks and 60% (minus print costs) for paperbacks. You also get access to Amazon-only marketing tools like Kindle Unlimited and Amazon Ads.

However, KDP has its drawbacks. Bookstores and libraries rarely order through Amazon, meaning you may miss out on that market. While KDP Expanded Distribution tries to address this, its reach is limited compared to IngramSpark.

IngramSpark, on the other hand, excels in wider distribution. It places your book in the global catalogues used by thousands of bookstores, libraries, and educational institutions. It also offers hardcover options and better quality control on print finishes. However, IngramSpark charges setup and revision fees, and its interface is less intuitive. Royalty rates can also be lower after wholesale discounts are applied.

Ultimately, many authors choose to use both platforms: publishing directly to Amazon through KDP and using IngramSpark for wider distribution.

Given the complexities involved, from ISBN choices to formatting and pricing, working with a publishing professional can help you navigate these options and tailor a strategy to your book’s goals. A little expert help can make a big difference in both reach and revenue.

Amazon KDP

✓ Pros:

• ✓ Free to use – no setup or revision fees
• ✓ Direct access to Amazon’s vast marketplace
• ✓ Higher royalties: up to 70% for eBooks, 60% (minus print costs) for paperbacks
• ✓ Simple, user-friendly publishing dashboard
• ✓ Access to Amazon-exclusive marketing tools (e.g., Kindle Unlimited, Amazon Ads)

✗ Cons:

• ✗ Limited reach beyond Amazon (bookstores and libraries usually avoid it)
• ✗ Expanded Distribution is restricted and pays lower royalties
• ✗ No hardcover option through standard KDP (only via beta KDP Hardcover with limited trim sizes)

IngramSpark

✓ Pros:

• ✓ Wide distribution to bookstores, libraries, and educational institutions worldwide
• ✓ Offers hardcover printing and more professional print quality
• ✓ Better suited for authors aiming for a traditional bookstore presence
• ✓ Greater control over trim sizes, paper type, and print finishes

✗ Cons:

• ✗ Charges setup fees and revision fees (unless waived via promo codes)
• ✗ Steeper learning curve and less intuitive interface
• ✗ Lower royalties due to wholesale discounts applied for retail partners

Best of Both Worlds

Many authors use both platforms to maximise their reach, publishing directly to Amazon via KDP and using IngramSpark for wider retail and library access. It’s a powerful strategy but can get complex when managing ISBNs, pricing, and metadata across systems.

That’s why it’s so important to work with a publishing professional who can help you navigate the options, avoid common pitfalls, and choose the best publishing path for your book’s unique goals. With expert guidance, you’ll be set up for success from day one, and The Book Chief can offer all of these options.

• Ask yourself why you want to write this novel.
• Decide what message, theme, or emotional journey you want to convey.

Step 2: Identify Your Genre and Target Audience

• Choose a genre: romance, mystery, fantasy, historical fiction, etc.
• Consider who will read your book and what they expect from the genre.

Step 3: Develop Your Central Idea or Premise

• Summarise your story in one or two sentences.
• Make sure your premise includes a protagonist, a conflict, and stakes.

Step 4: Create Memorable Characters

• Develop your main character (protagonist) and antagonist.
• Create character profiles including name, age, appearance, personality, backstory, goals, and flaws.
• Consider supporting characters and how they influence the plot.

Step 5: Choose a Point of View and Tense

• Decide who is telling the story (first person, third person limited, third person omniscient).
• Choose past or present tense.

Step 6: Build Your World

• Define the setting (time, place, culture).
• Consider any rules or unique elements if writing speculative fiction.
• Sketch maps or timelines if needed.

Step 7: Outline Your Plot

• Choose a structure (Three Act Structure, Hero’s Journey, etc.).
• Identify major plot points:
  • Inciting Incident
  • Rising Action
  • Climax
  • Falling Action
  • Resolution
• Create a chapter-by-chapter or scene-by-scene outline.

Step 8: Plan Subplots and Themes

• Decide on secondary storylines that support or contrast the main plot.
• Reinforce your themes through subplots and character arcs.

Step 9: Set a Writing Schedule

• Choose your writing routine (daily, weekly goals).
• Set deadlines and milestones.
• Consider using writing tools (Scrivener, Notion, Word, etc.).

Step 10: Start Writing Your First Draft

• Don’t worry about perfection…just get the story down.
• Stay flexible: your story might evolve as you write.

Step 11: Review and Revise

• After completing the draft, take a break.
• Read through your novel and make notes.
• Revise for structure, pacing, character development, and consistency.

Step 12: Seek Feedback

• Share your manuscript with trusted readers or a critique group.
• Be open to constructive criticism.
• Revise again based on feedback.

Step 13: Prepare for Publishing

• Decide between traditional publishing and self-publishing.
• Format your manuscript and prepare a synopsis and cover letter if querying agents for traditional publishing
• Edit and proofread thoroughly or better still, ask a professional to do this for you.

Final Tip: Enjoy the Journey! Writing a novel is a creative and personal adventure, give yourself permission to experiment, learn, and grow as a writer.

Establish Authority and Credibility

Position Yourself as an Expert: Writing a book allows you to showcase your expertise in your industry. This establishes you as a thought leader, which can attract more clients and opportunities.

Media Exposure: Books often attract media attention, which can lead to interviews, speaking engagements, and features in industry publications, further solidifying your reputation.

Attract New Clients

Lead Generation Tool: Offer your book as a free or low-cost lead magnet. This helps you capture contact information from potential clients who are interested in your services.

Value Proposition: Use your book to demonstrate the value you can offer. Case studies, client success stories, and actionable advice in the book can convince readers to seek your services.

Speaking Engagements: A book can open doors to speaking opportunities where you can directly connect with potential clients.

Create Additional Revenue Streams

Book Sales: While the direct revenue from book sales might not be substantial, it can still be a consistent source of income.

Up sell Opportunities: Use your book as a platform to up sell your other services, such as consulting, coaching, online courses, or workshops.

Workshops and Courses: Develop workshops, courses, or seminars based on the content of your book. This allows you to reach a broader audience and create new revenue streams.

Enhance Marketing and Branding

Content Marketing: Leverage the content from your book in your marketing efforts. Excerpts, blog posts, and social media content can be derived from your book, keeping your marketing consistent and focused.

Brand Differentiation: A book can differentiate your brand from competitors by showcasing your unique insights and methodologies.

Strategic Partnerships: A book can be a great way to initiate partnerships with other businesses. For example, you can co-author a book with another industry expert, or your book can be featured in a partner’s marketing campaign.

Expand Your Network

Book Tours and Speaking Events: Organise book tours and speaking engagements to meet new potential clients and partners. These events also provide opportunities to network and build relationships.

Joint Ventures: Use your book as a stepping stone to collaborate on joint ventures. For example, you can create a co-branded product or service that complements your book’s content.

Leverage as a Sales Tool

Client Gifts: Send your book as a gift to potential or existing clients. This not only provides value but keeps you top-of-mind when they need services you offer.

Sales Calls: Use your book as a leave-behind after sales meetings. This provides a tangible reminder of your expertise and keeps the conversation going.

Enhance Customer Loyalty

Follow-Up Material: Use your book as follow-up material for your existing clients. This can deepen their understanding of your services and reinforce the value you provide.

Exclusive Content: Offer additional content or resources related to your book exclusively to your clients. This adds value to their experience with your business.

International Reach

Global Audience: A book can easily be distributed worldwide, allowing you to reach an international audience and scale your business beyond local markets.

Translations and Editions: Consider translating your book into other languages or creating editions tailored to different markets to expand your reach further.

By strategically using a book in these ways, you can scale your business by reaching new audiences, establishing authority, and creating new revenue streams, all while enhancing your brand and customer relationships.

1. Start with a Strong Hook: The beginning of a story is crucial. A strong hook grabs the audience’s attention immediately, making them want to know more. This could be a surprising fact, a provocative question, or a vivid description that sets the scene.

2. Develop Relatable Characters: Characters are the heart of any story. They should be relatable, with motivations and flaws that resonate with the audience. Well-developed characters make it easier for the audience to become emotionally invested in the story.

3. Build a Narrative Arc: A well-structured narrative arc includes a beginning, middle, and end. This arc should include rising action, a climax, and a resolution. The conflict drives the story forward, and the resolution provides closure.

4. Use Descriptive Language: Effective storytelling involves engaging the senses. Descriptive language that appeals to sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell can make a story more vivid and immersive. Metaphors, similes, and analogies are also useful tools for creating strong imagery.

5. Show, Don’t Tell: Instead of telling the audience how to feel, show them through actions, dialogue, and details. This technique allows the audience to draw their own conclusions, making the experience more personal and impactful.

6. Incorporate Emotion: Stories that evoke emotions are more memorable. Whether it’s joy, sadness, anger, or fear, connecting with the audience on an emotional level can leave a lasting impression. The key is to make these emotions feel authentic and relevant to the story.

7. Keep the Audience in Mind: Understanding your audience is essential. Tailor your story to their interests, values, and level of understanding. Consider what will resonate with them and how you can convey your message in a way that is both engaging and meaningful.

8. Include a Clear Message: Every story should have a purpose or a message. This message should be clear and woven seamlessly into the narrative. It can be a moral lesson, a call to action, or simply a reflection on life’s complexities.

9. Use Pacing Effectively: Pacing controls the speed at which the story unfolds. Varying the pace can help maintain interest, build suspense, and emphasise key moments. Faster pacing might be used during action scenes, while slower pacing can be effective for moments of introspection or emotional depth.

10. End with Impact: The ending of a story should be memorable and satisfying. Whether it’s a twist, a resolution of conflict, or an open-ended conclusion that leaves the audience thinking, the ending should provide a sense of completion.

Effective storytelling is both an art and a science. By mastering these techniques, you can craft stories that captivate and resonate with your audience, making your message more impactful and memorable.

Why a Routine Matters

A daily writing routine helps establish a habit, making writing feel as natural as any other daily activity. Over time, it reduces procrastination and the anxiety of facing a blank page. Routine turns writing from a daunting task into a regular part of your day, enabling you to make steady progress.

Steps to Develop Your Routine

1. Set a Specific Time: Choose a time of day when you’re most focused and creative. Whether it’s early morning or late at night, consistency is critical. Stick to this time daily, even if it’s only for 15-30 minutes.
2. Create a Writing Space: Designate a specific place for writing. This space should be free of distractions and conducive to creativity. Personalise it with things that inspire you, like books, quotes, or art.
3. Start Small: Begin with manageable goals. If you’re new to daily writing, start with just 300-500 words a day. As this becomes easier, gradually increase your word count.
4. Use Prompts or Outlines: If you struggle to start, use writing prompts or create outlines to guide your sessions. This reduces the pressure of coming up with ideas on the spot.
5. Stay Flexible: Life happens; some days will be busier than others. If you miss a session, don’t be too hard on yourself. Adjust your routine as needed, but always return to it.

Conclusion

Developing a daily writing routine is about creating a sustainable habit that fits into your life. With time, it will help you produce more work, refine your craft, and bring you closer to achieving your writing ambitions. Start small, stay consistent, and watch your writing transform.

Writing Tools

1. Scrivener
   • Overview: Scrivener is a versatile writing software designed specifically for long-form content such as novels and research papers.
   • Features: It offers a binder for organising chapters and scenes, a corkboard for visualising your story, and robust formatting options.
   • Pros: Highly customisable, supports various writing formats, and has tools for planning and research.
   • Cons: Steeper learning curve, cost after the trial period.
2. Microsoft Word
   • Overview: A classic word processor known for its reliability and wide range of features.
   • Features: Comprehensive formatting options, track changes for editing, and compatibility with most publishing formats.
   • Pros: Familiar interface, powerful editing tools, widely used in the publishing industry.
   • Cons: Can be expensive, especially for the full Office suite.
3. Google Docs
   • Overview: A cloud-based word processor that facilitates easy collaboration.
   • Features: Real-time collaboration, cloud storage, and compatibility with various file formats.
   • Pros: Free to use, accessible from any device with internet, excellent for collaborative projects.
   • Cons: Limited offline functionality, fewer advanced formatting options compared to Word.
4. Ulysses
   • Overview: A minimalist writing app for Mac and iOS users.
   • Features: Distraction-free writing environment, markdown support, and seamless syncing across devices.
   • Pros: Clean interface, robust organisational tools, easy export options.
   • Cons: Subscription-based pricing, limited to Apple devices.

Editing Tools

1. Grammarly
   • Overview: A powerful grammar and spell-check tool that also provides style and tone suggestions.
   • Features: Advanced grammar checks, plagiarism detection, vocabulary enhancement.
   • Pros: Easy to use, integrates with most writing platforms, comprehensive suggestions.
   • Cons: Premium version can be pricey, not always perfect in context-sensitive suggestions.
2. ProWritingAid
   • Overview: An editing tool that offers in-depth writing analysis and improvement suggestions.
   • Features: Grammar and style checks, readability reports, and writing style comparisons.
   • Pros: Detailed feedback, integrates with various writing tools, one-time purchase option.
   • Cons: Can be overwhelming with the amount of feedback, slower than some competitors.
3. Hemingway Editor
   • Overview: A tool designed to make your writing clear and bold.
   • Features: Highlights complex sentences, passive voice, adverbs, and readability score.
   • Pros: User-friendly, encourages concise writing, desktop version available.
   • Cons: Limited features compared to more comprehensive tools, no real-time collaboration.
4. AutoCrit
   • Overview: An editing tool tailored for fiction writers.
   • Features: Pacing and momentum analysis, dialogue checks, and consistency reports.
   • Pros: Focuses on fiction-specific elements, detailed analysis, genre-based suggestions.
   • Cons: Can be expensive, limited use for non-fiction writers.

Planning and Research Tools

1. Evernote
   • Overview: A note-taking app that helps you organise research and ideas.
   • Features: Web clipping, tags for organisation, and cross-device syncing.
   • Pros: Versatile, easy to use, integrates with many other apps.
   • Cons: Free version has limited features, premium version can be costly.
2. MindMeister
   • Overview: A mind-mapping tool for brainstorming and organising ideas.
   • Features: Interactive mind maps, collaboration options, and export capabilities.
   • Pros: Visual organisation, easy sharing, great for planning complex plots.
   • Cons: Subscription required for full features, can be complex for beginners.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right tools can significantly enhance your writing and editing process. Whether you’re drafting your novel, polishing your manuscript, or organising your research, these tools offer a range of features to support your creative journey. Experiment with different options to find the ones that best suit your needs and workflow.

1. Pre-Launch Preparations

• Set a Launch Date: Choose a date at least six months in advance to allow ample time for preparations.
• Build an Author Platform: Establish a strong online presence through a website, blog, and active social media profiles. (you can see more about HOW to do this in our blog library)
• Create a Mailing List: Use services like Mailchimp to gather email subscribers. Offer a free chapter or a novella as an incentive.

2. Marketing Strategy

• Cover Design and Blurb: It’s imperative to Invest in a professional cover designer and write a compelling blurb that hooks potential readers as this is the first thing they will notice. If you are publishing through a Publisher like The Book Chief, this is all included in your package.
• Advance Reader Copies (ARCs): Distribute ARCs to reviewers, bloggers, and influencers through platforms like NetGalley or BookSprout. Aim for honest reviews that will be published on launch day.
• Press Kit: Prepare a press kit with your author bio, book summary, high-resolution cover image, and contact information. Send this to relevant media outlets and book bloggers. (The Book Chief can help you with any of this)

3. Engage with Your Audience

• Teasers and Excerpts: Share teasers, excerpts, and behind-the-scenes content on your blog and social media to build anticipation. If you have a fiction book, introduce your characters to build a relationship and curiosity with your readers so they want to know more.
• Launch Team: Recruit a launch team of enthusiastic readers who can help spread the word. Offer them exclusive content and early access to the book. If you’re in a Book Club this is perfect or if you have a team of people that support your Author journey.

4. Launch Day Execution

• Online Launch Event: Host a live event on platforms like Facebook or Instagram. Engage with attendees through Q&A sessions, giveaways, and live readings.
• F2F Event: Having a physical event with friends and family will create great photographs that you can share across social media to promote your book. You can also sell your book at your event.
• Discounts and Promotions: Offer limited-time discounts or bundle deals to encourage purchases. Use platforms like BookBub for promotional deals.

5. Post-Launch Activities

• Follow-Up: Send thank-you emails to everyone who helped with the launch or bought a copy of your book. Encourage readers to leave reviews on Amazon and Goodreads.
• Continued Marketing: Keep the momentum going with ongoing marketing efforts, such as blog tours, podcast interviews, and social media campaigns. (You’ll get some great tips from The Book Chief’s Book Marketing Mastery guide coming soon)

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to a successful book launch. Remember, the key is to plan meticulously, engage actively with your audience, and keep promoting your book even after the launch day. Happy launching!

1. NetGalley:
   • NetGalley is a service that allows authors and publishers to distribute digital review copies to a community of professional readers, including reviewers, bloggers, librarians, and booksellers.
   • How It Works: You can list your book on NetGalley, and members can request to read and review it. You can approve or deny requests based on the reviewer’s profile and past reviews.
2. BookSprout:
   • BookSprout is a platform that helps authors manage their ARC (Advanced Review Copy) distribution and track reviews.
   • How It Works: You can upload your book and invite readers to download it in exchange for an honest review. The platform also sends reminders to readers to leave their reviews.
3. Booksprout ARC Service:
   • BookSprout offers a more hands-off approach where they handle the ARC distribution and follow-up for you.
   • How It Works: They recruit readers who will read your book and leave reviews on Amazon and Goodreads.
4. Hidden Gems Books:
   • Hidden Gems Books is a paid service that connects authors with a community of avid readers who provide honest reviews in exchange for free copies of books.
   • How It Works: You submit your book, and they distribute it to their list of readers who are interested in your genre. These readers are then expected to leave reviews on platforms like Amazon and Goodreads.
5. BookSirens:
   • BookSirens helps authors get more reviews by distributing their books to readers who love to review books.
   • How It Works: You upload your book, and BookSirens will share it with their community of reviewers. They also follow up with readers to ensure they leave reviews.
6. LibraryThing Early Reviewers:
   • LibraryThing offers an Early Reviewers program where authors can provide copies of their books to readers in exchange for reviews.
   • How It Works: You can list your book in their Early Reviewers program, and interested readers can request a copy. Selected readers are then expected to leave a review.
7. Reedsy Discovery:
   • Reedsy Discovery is a platform where indie authors can submit their books to be reviewed by professional reviewers and book bloggers.
   • How It Works: You submit your book for consideration, and if accepted, it gets reviewed by one of their reviewers. These reviews can then be posted on Amazon and other platforms.
8. BookFunnel:
   • BookFunnel allows authors to distribute review copies to readers and track who downloads the book.
   • How It Works: You create a landing page for your book, share the link with potential reviewers, and BookFunnel handles the delivery and follow-up.

When using these services, it’s important to adhere to Amazon’s review policies and ensure that reviewers are leaving honest and unbiased reviews.

One of the most crucial aspects of a book’s success is its cover design. The cover is the first impression potential readers get, and it can significantly influence their decision to pick up your book. As an author who may have decided to self-publish your book on Amazon yourself, you might wonder whether to hire a professional designer or to go the DIY route. Here’s a comparison to help you decide.

Professional Designer

Pros:

1. Expertise and Skill: Professional designers bring a wealth of experience and a trained eye for design. They understand typography, color theory, and composition, ensuring your cover is visually appealing and market-ready.
2. Industry Knowledge: Professionals are often familiar with current trends in book design and can create a cover that stands out in your genre. They know what works and what doesn’t.
3. Time-Saving: Designing a cover is a time-consuming process. Hiring a professional allows you to focus on writing and marketing your book while they handle the design.
4. Inclusivity: If you’re using a Publisher to publish your book, design is often included in their packages which makes it far more appealing to go down this route.

Cons:

1. Cost: Hiring a professional can be expensive. Depending on their expertise and reputation, costs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
2. Less Control: While you can provide input, the final design is in the hands of the designer, which might lead to creative differences.

DIY Cover Design

Pros:

1. Cost-Effective: Designing your cover can save you a significant amount of money. With various affordable design tools and resources available, you can create a professional-looking cover on a budget.
2. Creative Control: You have complete control over the design process. Every element reflects your vision for the book.
3. Learning Opportunity: DIY design can be a valuable learning experience. It allows you to develop new skills and understand more about what appeals to your audience.

Cons:

1. Quality Concerns: Without professional training, it can be challenging to produce a cover that meets industry standards. A poorly designed cover might deter potential readers.
2. Time-Consuming: Learning design skills and creating a cover takes time. This can be a distraction from writing and promoting your book and it’s always best to let those who know, do!

Choosing between a professional designer and a DIY approach depends on your budget, skills, and priorities. If you have the resources, hiring a professional can ensure a high-quality cover that attracts readers. it’s even better if you can concentrate on writing the book and leave everything else to a Publisher who will take care of the whole process for you.

However, if you enjoy creative challenges and are willing to invest the appropriate time, DIY cover design can be a rewarding and cost-effective option. Ultimately, the goal is to create a cover that captures the essence of your book and draws readers in.