At Blue Balloon Books, we believe in publishing stories that capture the wonder and innocence of childhood while sparking young readers’ imaginations. But there are many ways to achieve that goal! No matter what’s driving the children’s story inside of you, you can convey a message that will meaningfully resonate with a young audience. Here are just a few ways artfully crafted children’s books can connect with your readers.
Educating on particular topics
Many books are, first and foremost, intended to be educational.
For example, with an emphasis on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics), the Helo Girls series by Kodey Bogart teaches young readers about critical roles helicopter pilots play, from putting out fires to helping law enforcement capture suspects to transporting patients quickly to the hospital.
Another example is Noel Vick’s All Fish Are Awesome, which shares fascinating facts about freshwater and saltwater fish while demonstrating that every fish plays an important role in the ecosystem.
The Mollys B by Joann Howeth shares notable pieces of American history through the stories of two Mollys—one a renowned survivor of the sinking of the RMS Titanic, the other a determined heifer with an indomitable spirit.
And Tiny Scrubs, Big Dreams by Jennifer Son takes readers on a fascinating journey throughout the human body, educating them on the roles surgeons play in healing and caring for others.
Sharing life lessons
Other children’s books have a moral to the story that young readers can apply to their own lives. When done well, these types of books can even encourage parents, teachers, and other caregivers to reflect and adapt their own mindset or actions based on the lessons in the story.
For instance, The Y Knots highlights the importance of imagination and play, encouraging kids to explore their creativity. At the same time, this lovable tale is here to answer with a “why not” when parents are stuck on the “what if” worry, reminding them that the mess and chaos are well worth the quality time and memories made.
Top Notch teaches young readers to lead with a positive mindset and believe in themselves to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges, while My Humongous Mess empowers kids to turn cleaning their room into an epic adventure.
And Around the Garden We GROW by Florence Ogunlesi and Sarah Ganginis opens up a conversation for kids to learn about food, growth, and respect. With empathy and inclusivity driving the messaging, this book emphasizes respecting food choices and cultures, understanding access to food, and embracing size diversity.
Instilling core values
On a similar note, many children’s books have a goal of imparting important values, including kindness, empathy, respect, resilience, and honesty. Blue Balloon Books is beyond proud to have worked on several titles meant to teach young readers to celebrate differences, embrace people’s unique gifts, and show compassion toward others.
For example, Oliver’s Extraordinary Friend by Andrea Mercier depicts how a little boy comes to understand and befriend a peer who has autism; Say Hello! invites young readers to find common ground with and joyfully greet those of differing abilities; and Ella and Her Neurosparkly Brain highlights that no matter how your brain operates, you are special and valued beyond measure.
Another notable title is Dear Girl, Be Free by Jamie Scheumann. Girls are often taught to be delicate, to always use their manners, to speak gently, and to never make a fuss. However, this book honors and encourages values such as determination, courage, and authenticity by urging readers to be boldly and unabashedly themselves to make their mark on the world and get the most out of life.
Acting as a resource
When a children’s book can be used to facilitate a conversation, explain something that can’t easily be put into words, or teach readers how to implement specific skills, it goes from being just a story to being an effective tool.
As an example, Ollie and Beep by Preston Knowles guides young readers through grief and the passage of time, teaching them to appreciate the gifts of the present rather than worry about the hardships of the future. This is meant to help adults address the complex concept of grief, loss, and death with children in a way that will be meaningful to them.
Where Do the Sugar Bugs Hide? by Himali Patel-Bhatt gives specific instructions in a kid-friendly way to help young readers take care of their dental hygiene through thorough brushing and flossing.
Bilingual Beginnings by Amanda Greenfield integrates Spanish words throughout the story to introduce readers to the Spanish language and set them on the path to becoming bilingual.
And Under the Hydrangea by M. B. Turchick uses simple, understandable language paired with illustrative examples to teach young readers about prepositions and howuse them properly in speech and writing.
Bringing readers joy and entertainment
Not every children’s book has a profound deeper meaning. Sometimes, kids’ books spark wonder and whimsy in readers just by being fun, playful, and enjoyable to read!
Jeb on the Farm by Lawrence Dupkin is a perfect example. Readers are guaranteed to roar with laughter as they follow Jeb through his day (and through each mishap he encounters).
Mortoise the Runaway Tortoise by Kylie Ger was also designed to evoke warm smiles and pure joy by describing a curious tortoise’s many attempts to escape and finally realize his dream of going on a beach vacation.
If I Were an Animal by Punky Lynn uses playful language and silly scenarios to elicit some giggles while tapping into young readers’ imaginations.
And upcoming title I Camped with Bigfoot by Chad and Sarah Zueck involves aliens in outer space, an unlikely friendship between a bigfoot named Daryl and a boy named Kaden, and lots and lots of hot dogs. Enough said on that one!
When it comes to children’s stories, there isn’t one best way to ignite a sense of wonder and imagination in young readers. No matter themes sage or goal of your kids’ book, as long as you have a strong narrative, a meaningful goal, and passion for the project, you can feel confident that your story matters.
It’s time to share it with the world. If you’re ready to transform your story idea into a well-received book like the others listed in this blogpost, contact Blue Balloon Books. Our acquisitions editors are always happy to start the conversation!