[asphaltgambler]

Hey all - I have an idea for a Christian children's illustrated book aimed to @4-6 years old. The subject matter / topic has not been covered at all in my research.

I have a complete outline; essentially the written portion with very specific ideas on what illustrations for each page should look like. I have contacted a local Christian book publisher whos specializes in this area.

I am not an experienced 'writer' of any sort, but I'm pretty good at putting my thoughts down on paper and telling a short story. I also know nothing about publishing, procedures, but I do know business and marketing. Ideally I would like for children to see the cover art, topic and either pick it up, be compelled to read or have their parents
read it to them, possibly become a keepsake. Lastly be at least somewhat successful financially, even if it results in a profit margin of pennies per book.

The publisher is 'offering' me a deal where I essentially pay their firm to edit, illustrate, publish and market the book. 1/3 at signing, 1/3 more when illustrations
are done, 1/3 when the books are ready to ship. I would own 100% IP of the storyline, main character.

I just received this proposal and my first question is for them: Show me existing client(s), similar deals and how that went for them. Show me the numbers.

So much advice needed please, seems I could 'invest' al lot of my own money, only to have boxes of books that no one buys or reads. Also, the retail price point $17.50 they project - seems too high for a children's book to me, that no one would pay that.