How to Build a Career as a Picture Book Author
What does it take to build a long-term career as a picture book author and/or illustrator? Creativity, flexibility, and a willingness to adapt as the market evolves.
Veteran literary agent Jennie Dunham shows how two of her clients have kept up successful careers over the 15-20 year period she's been working with them. In the process, she offers tips on how to navigate changes in the market and maintain a great relationship with an agent.
In addition, Jennie shares:
- How many picture books you should write before seeking an agent;
- How to evaluate an agent to determine if they are a fit for you;
- Submission do's and don'ts; and,
- To rhyme or not to rhyme, the perennial question.
Your Instructor
Jennie Dunham has been a literary agent in New York, New York for more than 25 years. In August 2000. she founded Dunham Literary, Inc.
She represents literary fiction and non-fiction for adults and children. Her clients have had both critical and commercial success. Books she has represented have appeared on the New York Times Best Sellers in adult hardcover fiction, children’s books, and children’s book series. Her clients have won numerous awards including: New York Times Best Illustrated Book, The Schneider Family Award, Boston Globe Horn Book Honor, and Los Angeles Times Book Prize Finalist.
She has been a member of AAR (Association of Authors Representatives) since 1993.
She graduated from Princeton University with a degree in Anthropology and .has a master's degree in Social Work from New York University (although she only practices with characters on the page).
She frequently speaks at writers conferences and events.
Course Curriculum
"Jennie, WOW!! WOW!! WOW!! Thank you for all your insights and knowledge. You are a rock star!"
- Lucy Staugler, Author
"Thank you Jennie for a very informative webinar. And for the wonderful author/illustrators that you shared with us."
- Sharalyn Edgeberg, Author
"I like how Jennie is an agent that has a relationship with her clients about changing, expanding, evolving based on the natural creative flow of the artist."
- Jose Cruz, Illustrator