How to keep on top of the industry

Staying Current

If you’re an aspiring writer or illustrator (or a working one) then it’s really important to understand the industry, know about recent books published and keep abreast of the different discussions amongst the professionals.

To start with, creatively try and make it a habit to read about recently published books, the news within the industry and what the market and librarians think of as great books.

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This is not to say, follow the trend. It is to avoid writing something too close to what someone has already published or learning to understand what publishers are publishing, even if you want to break the rules.

Here are some ways to keep on top of latest news and books published in UK Kidlit.

https://www.theguardian.com/books/series/children-s-book-roundup

https://www.thebookseller.com/news/childrens

https://www.nytimes.com/books/best-sellers/picture-books/

https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/childrens/index.html

Photo by Kishan Modi on Unsplash

Also do subscribe to a few amazing book round-ups and magazines:

https://alibrarylady.blog/2024/11/30/reading-matters-monthly-childrens-book-news/

https://booksforkeeps.co.uk/

https://www.booktrust.org.uk/books-and-reading/our-recommendations/great-books-guide/

https://www.inclusivebooksforchildren.org/browse-lists

https://www.letterboxlibrary.com/all-book-packs

Have I missed a resource? Send me the details and I’ll get it added!