D is for Developing A Scene List

Hello Supporters,

Welcome to week four of Blogging Through The Alphabet with Marcy @ BenandMe.com.  I am praying that you are enjoying the process of learning how I create each of my picture books.  This week we are on letter “D.”

So “D” is for Developing A Scene List.  If you remember from last week, the 2nd step was to decide where to break the text on each page.  Now it is time to determine which pictures will go best with each page, this is also called Scene Development.  Yes, picture books have scenes too.  

Taking the time to create development a scene list ensures that the illustrator you hire can create the best possible illustrations for your book.   The scene development list can be as simple or as detailed as you like but try to allow your illustrator some creative freedom. 

• Click here for a complete example of a scene development using the poem Jack and Jill.  
• Click here for a partial example using my book Jaden Goes to Foster Care.  
  

As seen in both list, it is important to include who is in each scene, what they are doing, and any other specific details that are mentioned in the text (i.e. brown paper and vinegar). Also, remember your illustrator will have to draw every detail you specify.  So if your story is about a rodent family with 20 children, ask yourself does having 20 children really enhances the story. 

(Note: when I first started writing picture books, I did not realize that as a writer I needed to do a scene development list.  Thankfully, God blessed me to find an illustration, Julie Bryant, who was able to take the words on each page and bring my vision to life. So if you are struggling with your list, contact Julie.  She may be able to help.)


Feel free to ask me any questions about developing a scene list or my next book Jaden Goes to Foster Care in the comment section. 


Until next time, please pray for me as I pray for you, 


Corine 



 

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