Publishing Guide · Updated November 2026
Publish a Children’s Book on Amazon KDP
The 7-step 2026 checklist: manuscript and cover specs, ISBN options, pricing math, and the mistakes that get picture books rejected.
KDP picture-book requirements
| Item | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Interior file | PDF, embedded fonts, 300 DPI images |
| Page count | Even number, minimum 24 pages |
| Cover file | Single PDF: back + spine + front, with bleed |
| Popular trim size | 8.5″ × 8.5″ (square picture book) |
| Royalty | 60% of list price minus printing cost |
7 steps to publish on KDP
Finish a print-ready manuscript
Your interior must be a print-quality PDF with embedded fonts and at least 24 pages for KDP paperback. Illustrations should be 300 DPI. SproutTales exports a trimmed, spec-compliant interior PDF automatically — no InDesign required.
Build the full-wrap cover
KDP needs one PDF containing back cover + spine + front cover, sized with bleed for your exact page count and trim size. Spine width depends on page count, so generate the cover last. SproutTales calculates bleed, gutter, and spine width for you.
Pick a trim size
The classic picture-book trim is 8.5″ × 8.5″. Whatever you choose, interior and cover must use the same size, and the page count must be even. Decide before generating final files.
Decide on an ISBN
KDP offers a free ISBN, or you can bring your own from Bowker (US). A free KDP ISBN lists “Independently published” as the imprint; your own ISBN lets you use your own publisher name. Either works for selling on Amazon.
Upload to KDP and preview
Create a KDP paperback project, upload your interior and cover PDFs, then use KDP’s online previewer to check every page. Fix bleed warnings and gutter issues before approving — most rejections come from cover sizing.
Set pricing and royalty
KDP paperback royalties are 60% of list price minus printing costs (color picture books cost more to print — check KDP’s printing cost table first). Price so the math works: a $14.99 color picture book typically nets a few dollars per sale.
Write metadata that sells
Choose 3 KDP categories and 7 keywords carefully — they decide who finds your book. Write a description for parents, not algorithms: age range, what the child learns, and what makes your book different.
Skip steps 1–2 entirely
SproutTales Creator ($29/mo) exports both KDP-ready PDFs — trimmed interior and full-wrap cover with bleed, gutter, and spine width calculated for your page count.
Create Your Book →Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to publish a children’s book on Amazon KDP?
Publishing itself is free — KDP charges no setup fees. Your costs are production (illustrations, formatting) and optional items like your own ISBN ($125 from Bowker in the US) or proof copies. Printing costs are deducted from royalties per sale, not paid upfront.
What files does KDP need for a picture book?
Two PDFs: a print-ready interior (embedded fonts, 300 DPI images, even page count of at least 24 pages) and a full-wrap cover PDF (back + spine + front) sized with bleed for your trim size and page count. SproutTales Creator and Studio plans export both.
Can I publish an AI-generated children’s book on KDP?
Yes, but you must disclose AI-generated content when KDP asks during setup, and you are responsible for the content’s originality. Always review every page and illustration before publishing.
What trim size is best for a children’s picture book on KDP?
8.5″ × 8.5″ is the most popular square format for picture books. KDP supports several sizes; pick one before finalizing files, because interior and cover must match exactly.
Do I need my own ISBN for KDP?
No. KDP provides a free ISBN for paperbacks. Bring your own only if you want your own imprint name instead of “Independently published,” or plan to distribute beyond Amazon.
How long does KDP review take?
Usually 24–72 hours for paperbacks. Books get rejected most often for cover sizing errors, missing bleed, or low-resolution images — run KDP’s previewer carefully before submitting.