Think back to your childhood. Is there a particular children’s book that has stayed with you over the years? (I've always had a soft spot for Goldilocks and the Three Bears.)
These stories from our early years stick with us and resonate deeply because they have something profound to say.
C.S. Lewis captured this beautifully in his essay On Three Ways of Writing for Children, in which he said, “Write a children’s story because a children’s story is the best art form for something you have to say.” Lewis’s words highlight that a good children’s story will stand the test of time because of the parts that make it truly memorable.
So the question is, what are the key elements of a children's book that children fall in love with for generations to come? Essentially, how will your story leave an impact?
If you can answer yes to these three questions, then you’re on the right path:
- Is the child the hero?
- Is the message buried within the story?
- Is your reader left with a smile?
Let’s Break This Down Further:
1. Is the Child the Hero?
It is so important for children to see themselves as the hero in books. When children can relate to a story, they are more likely to remember it and comprehend what they are reading. Child characters in stories promote feelings of empowerment and encourage children to create change in the world around them.
When you review your story, answer these reflection questions:
- Is the child the focus? Or has the adult taken over?
- Does your child figure out how to solve the problem? Or have they been told how to solve the problem?
- Does the character’s journey reflect real-world challenges that young readers might face?
Children’s books can be an excellent way to inspire children to take action and solve certain problems. When a child takes on the role of the hero in a story, young readers can relate to how the character navigates challenges. This connection helps them better understand and manage their own emotions and conflicts.
Check Out This Example:
My first book, I Can Believe in Myself, challenges children to change the way they think. The story follows a young girl named Molly who has to speak in front of the class. The only problem is she convinces herself, “I can’t, I can’t.” It ends up being a powerful story of overcoming negative beliefs and offers young readers a lifelong lesson about believing in themselves, turning the words "I can't" into "I can!"
Children will see that Molly is the hero in this story because she problem-solved her way through a challenging experience. This encourages them to adopt this mantra into their own vocabulary. If Molly can, they can too!
2. Is the Message Buried Inside the Story?
Imagine this concluding statement: “And that’s why it’s important to always tell the truth.” End of story.
Does it feel a bit flat? Does it sound somewhat like the end of a lecture?
If your book plainly states the intended lesson, it might not resonate as deeply with young readers. Instead, weave the lesson into the story as subtly as parents hide vegetables in their children's meals—by blending the important message into something engaging and delightful! Children are perceptive. You would be surprised at how much they can grasp from a well-crafted story.
Your ‘aha’ moment should be a natural part of the book, relatable to the child’s life, and something that supports their personal growth. Lessons that are embedded within fun and engaging stories can have a much more significant impact than direct discussion.
Check Out This Example:
Don Freeman’s Corduroy tells a classic story of one of the most loved bears in children's literature for over 43 years. Corduroy's story is a childhood classic about a small bear who has lost a button and is afraid he won't find a friend or a home without it. He is afraid that no one will buy him if he’s not perfect and he will have to stay in the department store forever.
That is until a young girl finds him and loves him just the way he is—missing button and all. Corduroy finally finds love, fulfillment... and a button. Without coming out and saying it, this book teaches children to accept others, despite an “imperfection.” It implies how we are all special just the way we are and worthy of being loved.
3. Is the Reader Left With a Smile?
The ending of your children’s book will be the last thing the reader sees and remembers. It ties everything together and has the potential to stay with them for a long time.
Children crave closure. They like to know how things turn out. A strong ending ties up loose ends and provides a sense of resolution. It doesn't necessarily need a fairy-tale "happily ever after," but it should offer a clear and satisfying conclusion.
It's important to focus on a strong ending because it's the last chance to engage with the reader and win their love for your story. Some might say the ending of your book is the deciding factor on whether or not a reader will pick it up to read again.
Check out Four Ways To Leave Your Reader With a Smile:
- Unexpected Twists: A surprise ending can be delightful, but make sure it's a happy one.
- Humour: A well-placed joke or funny situation can leave readers giggling.
- Triumph: Overcoming challenges and achieving goals can be incredibly satisfying.
- Warmth and Fuzzy Feelings: A sense of love, friendship, or belonging can create a heartwarming conclusion.
Once all is said and done, your children’s book should ideally reflect a yes to each of these questions. If you’re reviewing your story to confirm, now is also a great opportunity to show someone your work and ask for feedback.
Ask them what they think about the story and what stands out to them. Does it spark imagination or encourage critical thinking? Depending on your feedback, you can shape your story to emphasize these important ideas further.
Remember, your first draft is supposed to have room for improvement. After all, how many times do you think it took to land on the moon? Write your draft, reflect on these questions, and then ask others who are trusting and supportive of their thoughts. You will be amazed at how much clarity these steps will bring.
You got this!
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