Case Study

My Experience of Writing a Children’s Book

By Shan
April 2026

How it all started

I began writing my first children’s book while visiting my grandchildren in Christchurch, New Zealand. It had been seven years since I last published a book: my 13th book in Hong Kong in 2018.

What started as a personal idea: Letters to My Grandson; gradually evolved into Letters to My Grandchildren. But as the idea grew, so did the challenge, and I found myself unable to continue for several years.

Everything changed when I reconnected with Fu, a former student who had become an illustrator and publisher. After reading his book Callum the Crab with my grandchildren and seeing their joy, I realised I could finally write a story for them.

That moment marked a new beginning.

The Process

I shared a short story about a family trip to Akaroa, which Fu immediately saw as a children’s book.

Our collaboration began with a clear division of roles: I focused on storytelling, while Fu led illustration and publishing. We worked closely on every detail, refining each page together until we reached a shared vision.

I learned that writing for children requires more than simplicity: it demands clarity, rhythm, and emotional connection. Fu’s experience guided us through many key creative and editorial decisions.

How It Got Published

Once the book was completed, we faced the unfamiliar world of publishing and distribution. With Fu’s guidance, we navigated production decisions and published through Amazon and IngramSpark.

However, publishing is only the first step. With millions of children’s books released each year, visibility becomes the real challenge. Insights from Fu’s work, Not Enough Consumers, reinforced how critical discoverability is in today’s publishing landscape.

We began reaching out to distributors, bookstores, and partners to introduce the book-an ongoing effort that requires both strategy and persistence.

Doubts and Difficulties

Returning to writing after many years was not easy. Shaping a personal idea into a structured children’s book required discipline and adjustment.

There were constant questions:how to balance storytelling with learning, how to engage young readers, and how to stand out in a crowded market.

One truth became clear: writing the book is only half the journey. Reaching readers is the other half.

Reflections and Advice

This experience has been both challenging and rewarding

My advice is simple:
• Write a meaningful and engaging story
• Work with a skilled illustrator
• Find a reliable distribution channel
• Plan your publishing strategy carefully
• Understand your market and readers
• Actively reach out to bookstores and partners

And most importantly—be patient, and hopeful.

Gallery

Snapshots & Behind the Scenes

Gong Gong and the Amazing Kids: Book 1: A Trip to Akaroa

Format: eBook, Paperback & Hardcover
Print length: 80 pages
Paperback Dimensions: 13.97 x 0.48 x 21.59 cm
Hardcover Dimensions: 14.57 x 0.97 x 22.19 cm
Language: English

ISBN: 978-1807720063 (eBook)
ISBN: 978-1807720070 (Paperback)
ISBN: 978-1807720087 (Hardcover)

Price:
eBook: £2.99
Paperback: £12.99
Hardcover: £16.99

Contact

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Email

info@westmoorcoastpress.co.uk

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