Whatever You’re Stuck On, There’s an Edition for It
A stage-by-stage map through the Chronicle, sorted by where you are on your journey. – The KidLit Creator’s Chronicle – Issue #64
Whatever you’re wrestling with in your author journey this week, I’ve probably already written about it.
The KidLit Creator’s Chronicle has grown into quite a library now (we’re on edition #64 already!), so today I’m sharing some my favourites. I’ve sorted them by where you might be on your journey right now, so you can find the right one(s) for you.
A few of these should be exactly what you need to read this week.
So, scroll down and find the stage that matches what you’re working on today!
First: an idea that works
Sometimes authors try to create a book from an idea that isn’t quite workable, or they spend years trying to come up with the most mind-blowing idea possible… both of those can get you stuck.
Why Your Picture Book Idea Doesn’t Need to Be Original (#51)
The pressure to come up with something nobody’s ever seen can kill many good ideas. This article goes over why your idea doesn’t have to be brand new to be brilliant.
The First Step to a Stronger, More Publishable Children’s Book (#15)
Before writing and revising, there’s one foundational step that makes everything easier. This article covers that.
Writing it well: the craft that makes a book work
While your idea is important, how you actually write your story is mor important.
Theme: What Your Picture Book Is Really About (#24)
Get clear on your theme, and everything else starts to line up. I actually got contacted by Laura Backes on this one, because she loved it so much, they published it in their newsletter too. (Me grinning like the kid who got some kind of award at school for this recognition.)
How to Use Mentor Texts to Write Better Picture Books (#55)
The books you love are also your best teachers. This article goes over how to read like a writer so you can learn what actually makes them work.
Why: what we’re really doing here
Being an author can get tough, and I think almost all of us sometimes wonder if it’s worth it. These can help!
Picture Books Matter More Than Most People Realise (#59)
Picture books do so much more for kids than we realise. I bet you’ll learn some important benefits you didn’t know about, and if you need reminding why your writing matters, start here.
The Three Forces Reshaping the World of Children’s Books (#56)
We live in a time like never before, and it’s changing childhood. This inevitably impacts the world of children’s books. In this article, I go over the three forces I believe are having the biggest impact.
The Three Connections: What It Actually Takes to Write a Book That Matters (#57)
The invisible rules that separate a book that connects from one that doesn’t. This is completely from my own view on books, and you won’t find this anywhere else.
Out into the world: publishing and marketing
The part most of us find hardest, and the part that decides whether your book actually reaches the children it was written for.
The Book Marketing Strategy That Bookstores Can’t Compete With (School Visits (#31)
Whether you’re a new author or you’ve been trying to grow your sales for a while, school visits are one of the most effective ways to sell books, build credibility, and gain long-term success.
The Free Marketing Channel Most Children’s Book Authors Are Missing (#53)
When children’s book authors think about marketing, they usually think about social media, Amazon ads, or building an email list. And those are all valid strategies. But there’s one channel that doesn’t get enough attention in the children’s book world, and it’s a powerful one.
Prefer to watch?
(and ICYMI, I have a YouTube channel now!)
I’ve been putting TKCC editions up in video form. Perfect for listening while you cook dinner, fold the laundry, or sit down with a cup of tea.
A few good ones to start with:
2026 Self-Publishing Changes: What Children’s Book Authors Must Know (#54)
Goal Setting for Children’s Book Authors That Actually Works (#1)
Amazon Boost Sales: A+ Content for Children’s Books (#12)
The Truth About AI-Generated Children’s Books (#4)
You can find the whole channel here.
When you read/watch, please comment and let me know your thoughts! I really love hearing from readers and seeing how my articles helped you, or what you agree with or disagree with!
