It's a fact that children's books and cook books are the top sellers in the publishing industry. Before web access and e-books, writing and publishing children's books was no easy task. The major publishers receive tens of thousands of manuscripts each year. If you are an unpublished writer, it's unlikely you'll get even an acknowledgment from the busy editor at the big publishing houses. Even with an agent, competition is stiff. In short, getting published is a long, hard journey through a maze of the 'proper' channels, with everyone taking a bite out of your profits, all along the way. J.K. Rowling is the anomaly. The ability to self publish has changed this picture forever.

There's a little bit of the child in all of us. Young writers are much closer to childhood and often can sagely and easily zero in on ideas that capture children's attention and excitement. Experienced, older writers may have a better command of the language, more formal education and an awareness of the psychological approaches that children find appealing. However, this isn't necessarily a huge advantage over a young writer. Children's books which are successful are those that spark a child's imagination, make them laugh and contain ideas, characters and illustrations that excite them. While there are many talented, older writers now publishing children's books, I suspect that there are many young, aspiring writers with a classic children's book lurking in their minds.

You, young writers, have the chance of a lifetime in this market. With self publishing children's books now being so easy, you have nothing to lose in giving this a shot. If you're still in high school, you might even be able to get extra credit in your English class, or make your children's book a creative writing class project.

So, where do you begin? Brainstorm your story possibilities. Think about the Disney movies you most loved as a kid. Which books did you have Mom or Dad read over and over again? Who were your favorite fictional characters and why did you love them so much? Did you have a favorite book with outstanding illustrations? When you have answered these questions, sit down and make a list of the most appealing aspects. Almost every kid loved 'The Wizard of Oz', a classic fantasy with strong character development throughout. Get an illustrated copy from the library and look at the pictures.

Now, start to develop your story line. Contrasting a lovable character with the evil one engenders excitement and suspense. Kids will naturally be cheering for the cute guy, hoping he'll be able to overcome the bad one's scheming.

If you don't feel you're up to doing your own illustrations, team up with another young artist. Work together to develop illustrations that dovetail with the characters and mood of your story. You can use graphics software to create your illustrations, or scan original art work onto your PC.

Self publishing children's books is not an expensive proposition, especially when you publish as an e-book. You should have your own web page, but increase your exposure by listing it on writer's sites. There are several which will give you a page on their site for free. Check out writer's sites with 'brag boards' where you can announce you're self publishing children's books. Spread the word every way you can. Tell all your friends and put up flyers all over town. Put one up at your church. Tell your librarian. Word of mouth referral is a powerful marketing tool.

Be patient. If your story is good, you'll make sales and don't have to share the profits with anyone. Publishing children's books may become a habit, as well as a lucrative career. The best of luck to you!