The one thing you should do before writing a children's book

Why market research is so important and what to look for in a bookshop

One of the first pieces of advice we impart to every aspiring children’s writer and illustrator is to go hang out in a bookshop (or two).

We say this not because bookshops are Naomi’s happy place, or because we think they’re amazing. If you’re reading this, you probably love a bookshop too.

The reason is simply because it’s really important to understand your market before you start writing or illustrating.

If you aren’t sure what exactly you’re supposed to be looking for in a bookshop, or why it matters so much, then this post is for you.

What exactly should you look at in a bookshop?

You probably know what to look at in a bookshop, books, right? But what should you specifically look for when doing market research?

First things first, take a look at the window. What books are on display? Are they seasonal? Do they have a hook or theme of some kind?

Next head into the children’s section. Again, notice which books are on display on the tables. Then have a good rummage through the shelves and pick up the books themselves.

What should you be looking for when you pick up a book?

Pay attention to the titles of the books and the voice of the text.

If it’s a picture book is it written in rhyme or prose?

When you open the book, how much text is there? How many illustrations? (More on word counts and formats next week).

Look at the copyright page to see which imprint/publisher produced the book.