Are You The Next Shel Silverstein?
Don't we all remember the beautiful rhymes and colorful pictures of Dr. Seuss books? Children's books hold a special place in the lives of children, often teaching them morals and values set against a creative and imaginative landscape. Children's books serve children from their preschool to teenage years. While some writers are commissioned by a publisher, most writers write books independently and then shop them around for publication. If a writer gains some notability, he or she may sign a contract binding them to a certain number of books written over a certain number of years.
Publishers are looking for writers to have a college degree in liberal arts, communications, journalism, or English is favorable. A secondary degree or training in early childhood education programs or child development programs may also help. However, prior accepted publications will always help your career even if you don't have the proper training and degrees.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports employment of writers is expected to grow about as fast as the average through 2014. Job outlook is expected to be competitive because people with writing or journalism training are both attracted to the occupation. Median annual earnings for salaried writers were $44,350 in May 2004, though independent writers earned up to $75,140 a year in May 2005.
Those working independently should be aware they will be paid per project by a publisher, so income can vary year to year. While there are no programs that instruct you on how to become a writer, in this field endurance and patience is the name of the game.
