Writing Children's Books Ideas - Do THIS to Make Your Story More Appealing!

Summary

In this video, award-winning children's author Eevi discusses the unique challenge of writing children's books, which must appeal to both children and the adults who purchase them. She emphasizes the importance of addressing the differing interests and values of these two audiences to maximize a book's appeal. By blending engaging themes that resonate with kids—like popular characters or topics—with valuable messages that adults seek to impart, authors can create stories that captivate both groups. Eevi shares examples and offers insights into her 'Secret Sauce Story' formula, encouraging aspiring authors to strategically consider their dual audience.

Takeaways

• 😀 Children's books must appeal to both children and adults, creating a unique marketing challenge.
• 😀 The majority of children's book purchasers are adults, primarily women aged 30 to 44.
• 😀 Children's books are typically lower in word count, page count, and rely heavily on illustrations.
• 😀 Authors need to find common ground to attract both audiences with their storytelling.
• 😀 Values such as kindness and empathy are crucial selling points for adult buyers.
• 😀 Identifying current trends and interests among children can help make a book more appealing to them.
• 😀 Successful children's books often combine elements that attract both children and adults.
• 😀 Using subtitles can effectively communicate a book's message or value to adult readers.
• 😀 Understanding the dual audience can significantly enhance a book's chances of success.
• 😀 Authors should strategically incorporate marketing angles into their writing process from the start.

Q & A

What is one unique challenge of writing children's books mentioned in the video?

Children's books must appeal to two separate audiences: children and the adults who purchase the books.

Who typically buys children's books?

The primary purchasers are usually grown-ups, such as parents, caregivers, and family members, with 70% being females aged between 30 and 44.

Why is it important for children's authors to understand their dual audience?

Understanding both audiences helps authors create books that resonate with children while also appealing to the values and preferences of adults, increasing the likelihood of a sale.

What strategies can authors use to appeal to both children and adults?

Authors should incorporate engaging themes for kids and meaningful values for adults into their stories, effectively merging both needs.

What types of values are important to convey in children's books?

Values such as kindness, sharing, and friendship are essential, as they are concepts that grown-ups want to impart to children.

What questions should authors consider when targeting the adult audience?

Authors can ask what parents want their children to learn, what educators might include in classrooms, and what librarians seek for their shelves.

How can authors determine what children are interested in?

Authors should observe current trends in children's clothing, popular themes in bookstores, and interests expressed by their own kids.

Can you give an example of a children's book that appeals to both audiences?

The book 'Today I'll Be a Princess' by Paula Croyle appeals to children with its princess theme while conveying the value of being oneself for adults.

What is the benefit of using subtitles in children's books?

Subtitles can effectively convey the book's message or value to adults, making it clear what the book is about and why it’s worth purchasing.

How does appealing to both audiences benefit a children's book?

By appealing to both children and adults, authors increase the chances of their book being purchased and loved by both parties, enhancing its overall success.