5 Children's Book Proposal Mistakes You Might Be Making
And What To Do Instead...
Don’t miss out! The KidLit Pitch Kit is coming soon—with the actual proposal that landed me three book deals, plus a sample query, agent interview, and more.
Proposals are tough to get right. Looking online there are a lot of generic templates, but nothing that truly holds your hand or to write one that will stand out from the crown. But I’ve had the opportunity to review a lot of friends and client’s proposals (as well as write many of my own), and over time, I’ve noticed a few common mistakes that trip up even really talented writers in the world of Christian children’s books.
If you’re in the thick of writing your proposal (or avoiding it completely because you’re terrified you’ll get it wrong), here are five things to watch for:
1. You’re not showing how the book meets a need.
Your story might be adorable. It might be poetic. It is (hopefully!) biblically sound. But if it doesn’t solve a problem for the parent, educator, or gift-giver buying it, it won’t sell. Publishers are looking for books that meet felt needs—like helping a child process grief, grow in faith, manage big emotions, or understand their value in Christ. This doesn’t mean it has to be heavy-handed or overt, but you should be able to name a reason (or a few!) for why someone would purchase it.
Understandably, you might be thinking of the many books out there that seem like they’re “just for fun”—and that’s true, there are a lot like that! But if you want to be in the Christian publishing world, particularly if you’re a first time author, likely your book will need to contribute to the moral or theological formation of a child. Usually, there is more leeway if it is a subsequent book and your past books have sold well in the past. (Like my book, A World Wonder, which was a bit more “squishy,” in its ability to articulate a clear need.)
Before you write another line of your proposal, ask: What’s the real-world reason someone would buy this book?
2. You don’t show how your book is unique to the market.
Part of the proposal process is writing a comps section and showing how your book will stand out in the market. Even if your book tackles a “common” topic—grief, joy, identity, prayer—it still needs a unique angle. For example, in “Like Me,” it’s on disabilities (a common(ish) topic) but I took the angle of showing a “day-in-the-life” of a real family and focus on educating children who are not often around disabilities. It’s that kind of fresh framing publishers are looking for.
Don’t just say the topic is needed—show how your version brings something new.
3. You undervalue your engines—or overstate it.
Here’s the thing: a tiny but engaged email list is better than 50,000 passive followers. A speaking opportunity to 30 moms at a moms group might convert more buyers than a viral reel. But I often see authors either hide their platforms out of insecurity or puff it up with vague claims. What publishers want is evidence of connection and a plan for growth. Be honest and accurate about where you are right now, as of writing the proposal, but also share ways that you are planning to both foster your existing community and grow into new spaces. Remember that books typically take two years to come out! A lot can happen in two year in terms of your engines for sale. Publishers are not afraid of small platforms, just authors who won’t to anything to nurture them.
Be honest. Be specific. And show how you're growing—not just what you've already done.
4. You don’t have a plan for getting the word out.
You don’t need a huge platform to get published. I repeat: You do not need a huge platform. But you do need a thoughtful plan. Too many proposals say something like “I’ll post on Instagram” or “I have a supportive church community,” and stop there. Publishers want to know: Where specifically will you show up? How will you spread the word? Why are you the right messenger for this message?
Map out your network, partnerships, communication, and ideas. It’s not about how wide a net you can cast, it’s about how creative and innovative you can be.
5. The proposal includes way too much information.
While most of my proposals are about 15 pages, less truly is more. You have about 30 seconds to grab their attention on the first page and are going to have to work hard to keep it. If your proposal is bloated, scattered, or filled with random sections, the editor will move on. Don’t bury your brilliant concept in rambling 40-page document.
Stick to what matters: be strategic—not exhaustive.
Final Word
Writing a children’s book is one thing. Pitching it is another. But when you approach your proposal with purpose, clarity, and a little creativity, you give your story the best shot at getting into the hands of real kids (and their grown-ups).
And if you want step-by-step help? The KidLit Pitch Kit is coming soon—with the actual proposal that landed me three book deals, plus a sample query, agent interview, and more. Sign up for the waitlist now.
Writing with you,
Laura + The KidLit Lab Team