CANSCAIP FAQs
About CANSCAIP
How do I join? What are the benefits of joining CANSCAIP?
The benefits of joining CANSCAIP can be found here.
Why doesn't CANSCAIP accept self-published authors/illustrators as Members?
This ruling may seem somewhat unfair toward self-published creators, especially with today's improved self-publishing technology. Unfortunately, CANSCAIP lacks the resources to individually assess a candidate's work. Getting published by a recognized publisher or distributed by a recognized distributor is a reasonably objective benchmark of production and (especially) editorial quality.
Self-published creators are welcome to join as Friends of CANSCAIP.
Getting Published
How do I get published?
There is an appropriate protocol for submitting a manuscript or artist's portfolio to a Canadian publisher. CANSCAIP recommends the Get Published! Kit produced by The Canadian Children's Book Centre, which includes basic information about agents, cover letters, query letters, manuscript submissions and Canadian publishers currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts. The CCBC also has an illustrator's bank that is periodically reviewed by publishers. Visit the CCBC website at www.bookcentre.ca.
How hard is it for a first-timer to get a children's book published in Canada?
Hard. One publisher reports getting 2,000 unsolicited manuscripts a year. However, each year they only published an average of one or two first-time authors. Because the number of unsolicited manuscripts a publisher receives is higher in children's publishing, it is actually more difficult, from a statistical point of view, to get a children's book published than an adult book. However, there are always success stories. Also, even though children's publishers get more submissions, they are also more likely to publish a first-time or non-agented writer than other publishers are.
How can I get my manuscript or series of illustrations evaluated?
CANSCAIP’s Blue Pencil Evaluation Program offers evaluation of a manuscript or a series of illustrations (for a fee). It is also a good idea to check out writing or illustration classes in your area. Or form a critique group!
I've written a children's book. Should I hire an illustrator?
Generally, no. Publishers prefer to match up a text to an illustrator of their own choosing. For marketing reasons, they may prefer to pair a first-time author with a more established illustrator. Usually, an author sends a manuscript for consideration and an illustrator sends a portfolio of varied work that the publisher will have on file to consider when a new manuscript is chosen for publication.
How do I negotiate a contract?
Sample contracts and an information package can be purchased from The Writer's Union of Canada.