Reading and writing go together, so writing for kids means reading kid's books. Skipping this step leads to writer's block. Why would you want that? Go to the library and feed your muse instead! Read as many kid's books as you can. Reading will help you learn your craft and keep you up-to-date with the market at the same time. (Knowing what sells can help you sell your own book!)

Read the Children's Book Review Magazines to find out about the books that just came out. See what the reviewers are saying about the new books and then read them for yourself.

Once a year the Best Children's Books Lists come out. Use these lists to help you see where the market is headed.

The yearly Children's Book Award Lists will let you know what the librarians and the media liked. What do you think of these books?

Don't forget to read books like yours! Check out your competition. If your book is just like the others out there, why would anyone buy it?