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I have written several children's stories, read them successfully at several elementary schools and libraries and sent the manuscripts to all the publishers listed in the "Children's Writer's & Illustrators Market" Guide.

I got no acceptances. Now I am considering self-publication.

1. How do I find an illustrator and what is the formula for their compensation?

2. How is self publication done? On Amazon, etc?

Thank you,

MikeLewin

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4 answers

Michael--re your questions:

1.  Finding an illustrator:  I'm going to assume you don't have a lot of money to pay an illustrator so I would recommend that you post an ad on Craigslist.  Be very clear as to what you need (how many illustrations, style if you know what you want, etc.).  If you don't have a lot of money to pay this person you might consider setting up some sort of revenue sharing (split the proceeds from the book once it's published).  The illustrator will likely want a share of proceeds regardless...you might just have to increase that percentage if you can't pay enough for the illustrations.  You could also try to negotiate a fixed fee but that all depends on the individual.  You can go onto sites such as freelancer.com and create a project online.  If you look through that site you'll get a sense of how much designers/illustrators are paid for varying types of jobs.  And finally since you're in the NYC area, consider working with a student from Pratt or any of the other great art schools in the area.  

2.  Self-publication:  there are numerous self-publishing houses out there that you can find by googling.  I have a few friends that have had good luck with iUniverse.  Most of these companies will guide you through the process on how to publish and how to sell.  

Good luck!

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Hello, I'm interested, I do illustration, but my website is not up right now. Email me at serarts@yahoo.com

Sera

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Jean,

Here are some resources that should be helpful:

To find illustrators at reasonable rates, look at Elance.com.  You can post your job and illustrators will bid.  You can also specify your target price, and any special deals you may offer such as a revenue split.

Another great source is Etsy.com.  This site focuses on art and handmade items.  They have a service where you can post a "job" such as illustrating a book and people will bid on it.

Finally, I have published successfully using Lulu.com.  It's great and they can get your book on Amazon.com for you.  I have sold way more books than I ever expected through them/Amazon.   Lulu allows you to set your own pricing, so you can make as much or little as you want.  Since you are responsible for marketing, you will make a lot more per book than if you published it through a publisher.

Hope that helps,

Peter

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Some publishers require an agent.  You may have to consider that as an option.  I wouldn't recommend self-publication because you do not get paid enough for all the hard work you have done.  In regards to illustrations, I think someone on here suggested that they could help you.with that.  I wish you the best in your journey.  Blessings.

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