1. Content
Student submissions must be no more than 6 pages in length, including title page and any illustrations. This helps to assure that the book remains within the publishing parameters. Submissions can be short stories, a collection of poetry, how-to instructions, thoughts and observations, or even an original song. The creativity of young minds has no limit! Content must be school appropriate (No bad language, adult content, or violent text. No hate content or discrimination of any kind.) Due to licensing issues, No fan fiction or stories based on copyrighted material of any kind may be submitted. (Fan Fiction is a story or character(s) based on another’s creation – books/comics, TV shows, cartoons, movies, etc.).
example: a story that takes place at Hogwarts would not be acceptable. Hogwarts is a special school of witchcraft and wizardry created by J.K. Rowling.
Title Page
Title page should include title, author’s name, author’s “About Me” (optional), and any desired artwork. The author’s “About Me” is a short bio, a “snap shot” of the author in this particular phase of life. It can be a list of favorite things, such as; food, color, book, toys, sports, activities, etc.. It’s a short paragraph about the student in this particular moment of their life. No location identifying information should be included – no addresses, phone numbers, email addresses or social media information.
To turn the pages, just wipe left or right.
The sample story is a six page example from Mrs. Johnson’s 1st grade class of 2017-2018. It is just one story out of 32 included in their full classroom book.
2. Font
Final drafts must be typed. Font size should be between 12 and 30 point. Font type is at the discretion of the students, as long as they are one of the following: Times New Roman, Verdana, Arial, Georgia, Helvetica, or Courier.
3. Margins
Class books are printed and trimmed to a standard book size of 6 inches wide by 9 inches in height. For letter size paper ( 8.5″ x 11″), the margins should be set as follows:
Top – 1.5″
Bottom – 1.5″
Left – 1.75″
Right – 1.75″
4. Illustrations
If students choose to include artwork, it must be original. Due to copyright issues, clip art will not be accepted. Illustrations must stay in the margin lines (see above for margin specifications). For best results, we recommend using colored pencils or markers.
All artwork must be school appropriate. Images containing violence, drug use, hate, or sexual situations will not be allowed. However, such images may be used when deemed appropriate to the story and approved by the teacher. FunderBooks™ maintains the right of final approval.
5. Proof Reading
Authors go through an editing process, as will the students. Final drafts should be proof read and read again for any spelling or grammar mistakes. This can be a great learning tool.
FunderBooks™ is not responsible for any spelling or grammar errors in student submissions.
6. Submit Manuscripts
After students and teachers are satisfied with the final drafts, collect all manuscripts and mail to FunderBooks. Each classroom’s submissions should be mailed together in the individual classroom containers we provided with your Fundraiser Kit. Postal charges will be reimbursed and itemized in your fundraiser financial statement. If postal charges are paid out-of-pocket by the teacher, FunderBooks will promptly forward reimbursement.
