1. The Children’s Writers and Illustrators Guide
A book that lists names and addresses of publishing houses and agents.
2. SCBWI.org (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators)
A professional on-line organization for writers and illustrators. They provide legal advice and connect you with other writers and illustrators in local critique groups.
3. The Charlotte Huck Children’s Literature Conference
Held in Redlands, CA every March. This conference brings in well-known writers, illustrators and editors from across the world.
4. Art Center College of Design in Pasadena
Classes in children’s book illustration are offered here. Worth the price!
5. Local writing courses
Check your local colleges for writing classes. It’s a great way to get feedback on your work.
6. Cover Letter
When sending in a manuscript, include a cover letter that gives a short summary of the story, a quick bio of yourself (it’s okay if you haven’t been published before), and the reason you chose to send to this agent in particular. In other words, do your homework on your publishing houses and editors.
7. Keep submitting
There are as many book ideas as there are editors and publishing houses. Keep submitting until you find the right house for your book. Listen to constructive criticism and celebrate the good rejections that have personal notes written on them.