Ask Jerry
Book Size
Asked by Sheila Shearer on September 15, 2020
I am writing two companion books. One book is in the category of two – five year olds. There is a four line poem on a double faced page. This book is mostly about the illustrations.
The companion book is a fantasy fiction novel that compliments the first book.
Q: Should they be the same size?
Q: In your opinion, what is the best size for a novel for Middle Age and/or a family read?
Much appreciation,
Sheila
Jerry's Answer
Sheila, the book for 2-5-year-olds would be a read-to book, of course, because it's directed at pre-readers.
By the way, fantasy fiction novel is a triple redundancy. A fantasy is by definition fiction and thus also a novel. And the word you want there is complement.
Q: Should they be the same size?
No, I shouldn't think a pre-reader should be the same size as Middle Grade (the term in the industry) novel.
Q: In your opinion, what is the best size for a novel for Middle Age and/or a family read?
Sadly, my opinion is irrelevant, as there are industry norms. (smile)
Children's picture books should be between 400 and 800 words. Middle Grade fiction can be between 20,000 and 55,000 words.