Beyond Mere Thoughts
Creative writing for magazines

by Karen Dean

I submitted my work to one publisher who has fourteen different magazines under the umbrella of one company, which made it easier to submit to multiple publications at once. Now I just need to wait to hear back about their response.

Several years ago, while searching through The Writer’s Market for possible ways to sell a story, I considered writing for magazines. Two weeks ago, I decided to revisit that option. In Children’s Writer’s and Illustrator’s Market, which is updated every year in a new edition, are listings for book publishers, magazine publishers, card companies, and other avenues for writers to submit their creative work.

Children’s Writer’s and Illustrator’s Market includes magazine listings with contact information, how to submit work, and what editors consider. It’s imperative to look through issues of various publications to determine if they are appropriate for your subject matter.

I specifically targeted children’s magazines by reading through every entry in the book to narrow down my options. It quickly became apparent that most listings were not a match for my work. With a narrowed down list, I carefully read what each publication specifically wanted. Company websites then lead me to submission guidelines including types of articles or stories, age levels, specific topics, word count, rates, contact information, and many more details.

I continued to refine my field of possibilities. Once I determined which choices were strong, I began searching bookstores for copies of the publications to read for a greater understanding of their format. The library was the only place where I located the focused list. Since they were reference copies only, I just sat there and read them, taking notes on my impressions of ten magazines.

Later, I looked online to see which ones gave a peek inside the issue. I found that to be extremely beneficial because it was motivating and spurred on new ideas and direction. Not only was it important to read the articles, stories, and games, but also to see what types of illustrations the magazines use.

Based on my observations, I compiled a strong portfolio with color copies from a few of my books, making sure to include characters from two to three illustrations per story to show consistency. After writing a letter of introduction, two stories were also added to my submission.

It’s out of my hands. I feel I’ve done all I could and hope for the best, and I’m excited at the prospect of having my writing and illustrations represented in national publications.

Several years ago, I submitted artwork and was rejected because my style was not what the publication was looking for. Now I’m back in the game with years of experience and illustration styles from cartoony characters to realistic. I will press on with determination.

Meanwhile, meet me at the author’s table where I will be autographing books at the East Texas Book Fest Saturday, Sept. 8 from 10 a.m - 4 p.m. at the University of Texas at Tyler’s Ornelas Activity Center. This event is free to the public and includes speakers and breakout sessions along with book signings and sales. For more information, go to the East Texas Book Fest website.

Stop by my table and let me know if you read my column. I’d love to meet you and get your input.

Stop by next month for a few more writing tips.

Karen Dean

In addition to being a published author and illustrator of children’s books, Karen Dean is also an accomplished artist in oil and watercolor painting architectural landscapes, seascapes, still life, and Classical Realism portraits.

Visit her website to view the gallery.