Interested in Children's Book Illustration... but where do I start?

But where do I start?

I've began doing tons of research, but it's all so scary!

What if nothing happens?

What if, after I've worked out all of my illustrations, sent query letters, and have countlessly rewritten manuscripts...

what

if

nothing

happens?

The thought of that truly scares me.

I'm beginning to think that this has prevented me from working on my illustrations any further.

I need to start thinking: what if everything happens?

I can't even imagine seeing an illustration of mine in a book- wouldn't that be insanely awesome? To go to the library and see a happy child holding your book, your story? And wonder how many people have laughed, cried, sighed, felt a little light go on inside themselves?

I know chances of getting a book published are very slim and slight, but you know what? I think I'm willing to give it a try.

And, let's just say that nothing does happen...

Is it really nothing?

Have I enjoyed illustrating and writing? YES!

Can I print out a copy for my family and friends? DOUBLE YES!

And can I read a copy to my nephew, who loves cats and bedtime stories? Triple yes.

So, am I interested in writing and illustrating stories?

YES.

The only thing holding me back is that fear of failure. But by realizing that even if I do "fail," I fail in the sense that my illustrations never get published. But by recognizing that the joy of illustrating alone and sharing those illustrations and stories with those close to me whom I truly love is enough to make me feel like I'm truly happy, maybe, just maybe, I've succeeded in my own way.

And that, that simple success, is enough.

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