Word Count and Page Numbers
Page Number count
32-page length books have become standard in the publishing industry for children’s picture books. Below are some of the reasons for this standard.
Printing and Binding
Traditional printing and binding processes work well with a standard number of pages. 32 pages can be efficiently printed and bound, making it cost effective and practical for publishers. Generally, because of the way the printers are set up, you must keep the number of pages to multiples of 16.
Attention span of children
Picture books are often designed for young readers with shorter attention spans. A 32-page length allows for a concise and engaging story that can be read in one sitting, suitable for a child’s attention span.
Economics of production
Publishers need to consider the cost of producing a book. A 32-page format strikes a balance between providing enough content for a story and keeping production costs manageable.
Market expectations
Readers and parents have come to expect a certain length for children’s picture books. This expectation may influence publishers to stick to the standard length to meet market preferences.
While 32 pages is a common standard, there is still variability in the length of children’s books. Some books may be longer or shorter, depending on the content and target age group. Its essential for authors and publishers to consider the specific needs of a story when determining the appropriate length for a children’s book.
Word Count
The word count for a children’s picture book with 32 pages can vary widely. A common guideline is to aim for a word count between 500 and 1000 words for pictures books intended for preschool and early primary school aged children.
Keep in mind that the primary focus of a children’s picture book is often on the illustrations, with the text serving to complement and enhance the visual storytelling. The limited word count is designed to match the shorter attention spans of young readers and allow for a concise, engaging narrative.
The appropriate word count for a children’s book depends on the story, the target age group and the style of writing.
It is crucial to prioritise quality over quantity and ensure the text compliments the illustrations to ensure an enjoyable reading experience.
Size:
I looked into what the most common sizes were for childrens books. I chose to go with landscape 10x8 inches.
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