Would you believe it if we told you that...

Children can write and illustrate their own children's picture books...
and many of these books rival those created by adults!

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In hospital wards, libraries and homes right now, children are inspiring other children by
showing them that anything is possible with a dream and some hard work.

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Children are producing works of a commercially publishable standard which are
generating profits, both for themselves and to support children who are in crisis.

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It sounds impossible, but it's true! Every year, more and more children are becoming published authors and illustrators through their participation in the Child Writes program. This stunning project gives primary school aged children a voice by teaching them how to write and illustrate their own children’s picture books. Whether the program is run in-school, in-home or within the community, children go through the stages of writing, editing, proofreading, planning and illustrating, culminating in a finished picture book.

 

These books are published by boutique publisher Boogie Books,
complete with ISBNs, a publishing contract and an official book launch!

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Copies are donated to places (such as hospitals) where children are in crisis... an empowering process for both the child authors and the children who are encouraged by the achievement and generosity of their peers. Every book is also made available for purchase online in electronic form, which means that children can actually receive royalties from the sales of their books!

 

Child Writes is continually developing marketing and commercial opportunities to further increase the rewards for child authors and illustrators, as well as making sure their voice is heard as far and wide as possible. Child Writes published titles are currently part of the ipad inflight entertainment for Jetstar!

 

“…the sheer feeling of success of writing, illustrating and publishing a children’s book of your own, words cannot describe the feeling. So for anyone out there wanting to publish a book of their own, I encourage you, although it has its up and downs, the feelings are unexplainable.”
Ashlee, age 12, author & illustrator, 'I Want a Friend'

 

Becoming a published author and illustrator, who is receiving royalties from their book, is actually a very simple process. However, it does require dedication and hard work. For children who are willing to apply the effort, here is what the path to publication and earnings looks like: