Overview: The theme of your picture book is the core message or lesson you want to convey to your readers. It could be about friendship, bravery, perseverance, or any number of values or life lessons. When self-editing, it’s important to ensure that this theme comes across clearly and naturally. The key is to convey your message without sounding too preachy or heavy-handed, while making sure it resonates with your target audience’s developmental stage.
Why Editing for Theme is Important
A picture book’s theme helps children connect with the story on a deeper level. Whether it’s a moral lesson or a simple message of kindness, the theme should feel authentic and align with the experiences of your young readers. At the same time, the theme should not overshadow the story itself. Readers are drawn to stories that feel genuine, where the message is woven seamlessly into the narrative.
Key Considerations When Self-Editing for Theme
1. Does the Book Have a Clear Theme or Moral?
Your theme should be easy to understand and resonate with your target audience. It doesn’t need to be overly complex, but it should be present throughout the story, subtly guiding the narrative without overwhelming it.
- Ensure your theme is woven naturally into the story, so it feels like a natural part of the plot, not a forced lesson.
- Keep the theme focused, avoiding too many competing messages or morals that could dilute the clarity of your message.
Questions to Ask:
- Is the theme clear without being explicitly stated?
- Does the story naturally convey the theme, or does it feel too forced or heavy-handed?
- Is the theme present from beginning to end?
2. Is the Message Appropriate for Your Audience?
The theme should align with the developmental stage of your readers. Younger children appreciate simple, straightforward lessons, while older readers may enjoy more nuanced or layered messages.
- Make sure the theme matches your audience’s level of understanding, so they can grasp it easily.
- Check that the theme reflects values or experiences that your readers can relate to, whether it’s about friendship, family, or overcoming challenges.
Questions to Ask:
- Is the theme appropriate for the age group you’re writing for?
- Can young readers relate to the message based on their developmental stage?
3. Does the Message Feel Natural, Not Preachy?
One of the most important aspects of a well-executed theme is subtlety. Your theme should be present throughout the story, but it shouldn’t feel like a lecture. Let your characters and plot demonstrate the lesson or message without overtly stating it.
- Use actions and consequences to convey the message, rather than having characters explain the lesson directly.
- Focus on showing, not telling, so the theme emerges naturally from the story.
Questions to Ask:
- Does the message feel natural, or is it too on-the-nose?
- Are there parts of the story where the theme is explained too directly?
How to Self-Edit for Theme
Step 1: Identify the Core Theme
Start by identifying the core theme or moral of your story. What is the central message you want to convey? Make sure you can summarize it in a sentence or two, and that it aligns with the overall narrative.
Step 2: Check for Subtlety
Go through your manuscript and look for places where the theme might be too explicitly stated. Try to rework these sections to let the message come across through actions, dialogue, and plot development instead of direct explanation.
Step 3: Ensure Consistency
Make sure the theme is consistent throughout the book. From the beginning to the end, the theme should be present in the story, helping guide the characters and plot. Ensure that all parts of the story contribute to reinforcing the theme.
Step 4: Match the Theme to Your Audience
Consider your target audience’s age and developmental stage. Ensure that the message you’re conveying is something they can understand and relate to. If needed, simplify or adjust the theme to make it clearer for younger readers.
Self-editing for theme is essential to ensure that your book’s message resonates with your target audience. A clear and well-integrated theme will add depth to your story without feeling preachy or forced. Take the time to review how your message is conveyed and ensure it feels natural, age-appropriate, and engaging for your readers.
