Complete your children’s book. The book should be scrupulously copy edited for content, spelling and grammar. If the book is illustrated, make sure that the illustrations are properly coordinated with the images.
Send query letters to agents. The query letter should include your qualifications, a summary of the book, details about any collaborators, and an explanation of how your book is original. If possible, try to find agents that are located in Ontario, so that you can work closely together. “The Guide to Literary Agents” contains a complete list of all agents.
Submit the manuscript of your children’s book to publishers with the help of your agent. Most publishers won’t consider submissions without an agent anymore. A few of the publishers in Ontario are Acacia House Publishing, House of Anansi Press and Walkerville Publishing Company.
Collaborate with an illustrator if your publisher thinks it’s necessary. You can discuss possible scenes and styles to illustrate the book, and you may have a choice in which illustrator is chosen.
Work with the publisher’s editor before publication. The publisher will name an editor to prepare the book for publication. However, if the editor changes positions or company, you might have to work with multiple editors.