The childrens book market can be difficult to crack for first-time authors. This friendly guide shows would-be J. K. Rowlings how to maximize their chances of success, offering practical, proven tips on developing book ideas, attending publishing conferences, writing a winning proposal, finding an agent, submitting to the right publisher, working with an editor, and more. It describes the differences between various types of childrens books and explains exactly what it takes to make the grade with each, including savvy advice on honing voice, descriptions, characters, plot, and pacing.