Essential elements of a picture book in prose

After 18 months of writing for children, I’ve only just discovered my own voice and am finally able to write picture books in prose. Here are some of the key elements that are finally making my prose shine.

Character

Characters in picture books must be relatable and memorable. Their actions and personalities drive the story and evoke emotional responses from the readers. Whether it’s a whimsical animal or a curious child, your characters should embody traits that children can relate to.

Lyrical text

Even though it’s prose, a picture book benefits from a rhythmic flow. The text should be musical and enjoyable to read aloud, with sentences that have a pleasing cadence. This makes the book more engaging and helps young readers develop a love for language.

Repetition

Repetition and predictability help young readers follow the story and anticipate what comes next. Repeated phrases or structures provide a sense of comfort and familiarity, making the book a favorite for repeated readings.

Onomatopoeia

Many picture books incorporate onomatopoeia, encouraging children to make sounds to participate in the story. These interactive aspects make reading a more dynamic and engaging experience.

Economy of words

Brevity is key in a picture book. Every word must count, as the text is typically limited to a few hundred words. This requires precision in language, ensuring that each sentence contributes to the story and helps build the world within the book.

I’ve learnt that writing a picture book in prose involves a delicate balance of engaging storytelling, relatable characters, rhythmic text, and harmonious illustrations.