A children’s book has one cost that most other books do not: illustration. That single factor makes budgeting different from a novel. Here is a realistic look at what publishing a children’s book costs and where the money goes.

Illustration is the biggest line item

Full color illustrations are the heart of a picture book, and they are the largest expense. A typical 32 page picture book needs a set of consistent, high quality images. Costs vary widely based on the style and detail you want, but this is almost always where most of the budget lands.

Editing and story polish

Even a short book benefits from an editor. Getting the rhythm, word choice, and page turns right is what separates a book kids ask for again from one that gets shelved.

Layout and formatting

The words and pictures have to be laid out for print and often for e-book, with the right sizing, bleed, and file setup for a printer. Good formatting keeps the book looking professional.

Printing

Print on demand means you do not have to buy a garage full of books upfront. You pay per copy as orders come in, which keeps risk low, though the per copy cost of full color printing is higher than black and white.

Ways to keep the budget sensible

Keep the page count tight, choose an art style that fits your budget, and bundle writing, illustration, and publishing with one team so nothing falls through the cracks. A well planned children’s book can be produced affordably without looking cheap.

Have a children’s book idea? WebFilmBooks handles writing, illustration, and publishing so your story reaches young readers. Email relentlessaaron2007@gmail.com or start at WebFilmBooks.com.