HOW TO WRITE A PICTURE BOOK
THAT GETS PUBLISHED
Confidently write your picture book with help from a published author
Ready to transform your story idea into a polished picture book manuscript that publishers actually want? Get the step-by-step guidance and professional support you need to write your first children's book.
Book a free discovery call →
Children's Picture Books by Heather Hartt-Sussman
Look for my newest release, The Birdfeeder, available on Amazon and in bookstores now. Browse my collection of 8 published picture books below.
The Birdfeeder
Woodpecker refuses to share the feeder, chasing Chickadee all the way into the city. But when Woodpecker finally returns to the forest, tired, and alone, something has changed.
Seamus’s Short Story
Seamus wishes he were taller. A pair of high heels gives him a whole new view, but some problems can't be fixed by standing tall.
Noni Says No
Noni can do lots of things, but saying “no” isn’t one of them. When trying to please her best friend goes too far, Noni must find the courage to speak up for herself.
Noni Is Nervous
Noni is nervous about everything, especially the first day of school. But with a new friend by her side, she learns that facing fears is a little easier together.
Noni Speaks Up
Noni wants to do the right thing—but when her classmate Hector is teased, she stays quiet. It doesn’t feel right, and soon Noni must decide if she’s brave enough to speak up.
Nana's Getting Married
Nana always has time for cookies, stories, and snuggly sweaters. But when she meets Bob, everything changes, and one little boy isn’t so sure he likes it.
Here Comes Hortense
Nana is back, and this time she's taking her grandson to a theme park with her new husband, Bob. But the fun takes a turn when Bob's granddaughter Hortense joins the trip, and suddenly Nana's attention is no longer just for him.
Nana's Summer Surprise
At the cottage for summer, Nana’s grandson is shocked to see how much Hortense has changed. She’s into pop stars and doesn’t want to climb trees anymore. But when they team up to plan a surprise for Nana, an unexpected friendship begins to grow.
Wondering How to Write a Picture Book That Actually Gets Published?
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You're not alone if you're struggling with:
âś‘ Getting started - staring at that blank page wondering how to create your children's book from scratchÂ
âś‘ Story structure confusion - not knowing the essential elements every picture book needsÂ
✑ Word count - unsure about proper length and pacing for children's books
âś‘ Character development - creating memorable characters kids will loveÂ
âś‘ Industry standards - missing the crucial formatting and submission requirements publishers expectÂ
âś‘ Manuscript rejection - getting "no" after "no" without understanding why
Stop struggling alone with your picture book dreams.
Learn the Art of Writing Children's Picture Books
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Imagine having access to:
âś” A proven step-by-step system that shows you exactly how to craft a picture book from concept to completionÂ
âś” Professional one-on-one coaching with a 8-time published author who knows what publishers wantÂ
âś” Industry-tested templates specifically designed for children's book writersÂ
âś” Manuscript editing guidance through private coaching or my collaborative writers' critique group
âś” The confidence to finish your picture book with expert support from someone who's been there
Transform your story idea into a publishable manuscript.
Ready to learn the art of children's book writing? Book a discovery call to explore how I can guide your journey.
Book a free discovery call →
Hi there, I’m Heather Hartt-Sussman
Your Guide to Picture Book Publishing Success
After years of rejection and frustration trying to break into children's publishing, I cracked the code. Now, as the author of 8 picture books published by major publishers, I've learned what it takes to create stories that publishers want and children love.
Before writing children's books, I worked as a broadcast journalist interviewing entertainment legends. That experience taught me how to craft compelling stories, skills I now bring to every coaching session.
I started this practice because I remember the frustration of not knowing how to shape a children's story that meets industry standards. I'm passionate about sharing the knowledge that led to my own publishing success. I don't just teach theory. I’ve lived it. Every technique comes from real publishing experience, and when you work with me, you're learning from someone who has walked the path and succeeded.
Learn more about my story →Here’s Three Ways You Can Learn Picture Book Writing
One-on-one guidance tailored to your story
Private Picture Book Coaching
Get personalized feedback and expert guidance to transform your story idea into a polished, publishable manuscript. Work directly with a published author who will help you avoid common pitfalls and fast-track your success.Â
Complete step-by-step trainingÂ
Self-Paced Picture Book Writing Course
Learn everything you need to know to write a compelling picture book at your own pace. Get the proven system that's helped dozens of authors create manuscripts that publishers actually want to read.
Community support with fellow authors
Picture Book Writers' Group
Join a supportive community of writers and get monthly coaching, feedback, and accountability. Connect with other aspiring authors while learning from industry experts in a fun, encouraging environment.
"I had my idea for a children's book since my girls were little, and now they are done with college! I never wrote it because I didn't know the proper formula and strategy to write it… so it collected dust until Heather's expertise popped into my life!
Heather helped me with her course with a straightforward step-by-step approach to take the overwhelm out of getting the idea out from the head and onto the paper.
My book is done now. Once I had proper guidance, writing my book was easier than I had imagined. Finally, I was able to come out with a professional final draft to submit to publishers!"
Laurey Bennett Levy, New York, NY
"Working with Heather has been an absolute delight. Her program was really great in swiftly getting our first draft developed.
Her expertise and professionalism really showed throughout the entire process and I would most definitely recommend her services to anybody conceptualizing their own book."
Super Ahmad, Los Angeles, CA
Ready to Finally Learn Picture Book Writing?
Stop wondering "how do I create a children's picture book" and start writing.
The difference between aspiring authors and published ones isn't talent - it's having the right guidance and proven system. With my step-by-step approach and experience, I'll show you exactly how to craft picture books that stand out in today's competitive market.
Your picture book journey starts with one conversation.Â
Reach out to book your free discovery call now →
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Site Design: Catherine Hendry Designs | All photography of Heather by Sheryl Wachtel Photography
