“Typically illustration specs are a real no no for a writer. The story should stand on its own without the need for them (except in very special cases) and editors pride themselves on finding just the right artist to illustrate the story.

The illustrator is considered a partner in the process, bringing their own vision to the story. Authors naturally have their own ideas about the illustrations, but in the business it is agreed that art specs would hamper the artist’s own creativity. There can be exceptions, of course, such is if the words say one thing but a picture should show something else. Even then, keep the specs short and avoid descriptive details unless they are necessary to understanding the story.

Even if the book is nonfiction the illustrations should be suggested by the words. I would think in some cases art specs might be more acceptable here, though. Still, I’ve illustrated two nonfiction books that had no art specs.” – Diane Dawson Hearn

Thank you, Diane!

Thanks for anwering my email and pointing me to yellapalooza. I hope to meet you someday. You’re the best!

Ginger

If you are both a writer and a professional illustrator, then what you will want to do is create a picture book dummy. I’m not an illustrator myself, but I can point you to a great article on how to make one.

http://www.yellapalooza.com/tutorials/dummies.html

Because you are BOTH writer and illustrator, you don’t have to worry about writing in text that’s covered in the illustrations. You make up a dummy that shows exactly what you visualize for the book. Please read the article for more specifics.

As for the Christian market, there is one literary agency I know of that specializes in the “Christian” market.  I can’t vouch for them since I have no experience with them. (Visit http://wordserveliterary.com) There are probably more out there, too. But, in general, you don’t necessarily need an agent for this market because it is so niche. I’d consult the CWIM for listings of publishers who accept religious PB manuscripts and go from there. You might also check out your local religious bookstore and see who’s putting out books that seem to be aligned with your project. That’s a very quick way to find publishers who might be a good match.

Happy writing and illustrating,
Cynthea

The book is a Christian book..this might sound silly but are there specific agents and publishing houses I should approach for this particular market?

Thank you for all of your information and your website. You Rock!