At some point in elementary school, young kids are usually challenged to turn themselves into child authors and illustrators by drawing and writing their own books from scratch. While this idea itself has been used in many schools, self-publishing platform Lulu.com is now giving kids the chance to make their books a little more professional.
Lulu's 'IlluStory Junior' story kit comes with paper, cover pages, washable markers and a postage-paid envelope so that the finished book can be shipped off to Lulu for professional binding and printing. Once shipped, this process takes about four to six weeks.
As the creators of a story's content, kids will be able to identify themselves in the book's "About the Author" section. As well as being a fun activity for kids, this makes a great keepsake for parents.
Child Author Kits
Lulu.com's 'IlluStory Junior' Lets Kids Write, Draw and Publish a Paperback
Trend Themes
1. Child Self-publishing - There is an opportunity for a self-publishing platform to specifically target children with user-friendly tools and a focus on cultivating young talents.
2. DIY Kits for Kids - The market for DIY kits for kids can be expanded to include writing and book publishing tools that help foster creativity and literacy skills.
3. Personalized Children's Books - There is potential for personalized children's books, allowing kids to create stories featuring themselves as the main characters and thereby promoting self-awareness and creativity.
Industry Implications
1. Publishing - Publishing companies can explore creating a line of self-publishing kits designed for children to help foster literacy and creativity.
2. Education - Schools and educational suppliers could take advantage of this trend by introducing writing and publishing kits into their arts curriculums and other programs.
3. Children's Gifts and Toys - Retail stores that cater to children could offer DIY kits for kids as part of their gift and toy range to provide an interactive and educational option for children.