Having never done one of these before, I’ve had to have a look at what’s been done already. Obviously some authors have money and technical know-how on their side, which MOST authors or budding authors don’t have … so maybe I should re-name the title What makes a good low tech children’s book trailer?

So I’ve done a bit of a search and found what can be regarded as ‘common denominators’ (breaks out into a cold sweat as memories of struggling with fractions come flooding back!) So in no particular order:

• Short is good. Most people will lose interest in a trailer after about 30 seconds.
• Just like a good story, grab the audience from the outset – initial image/scene MUST be good
• Your audience must know why they should bother reading your book … tempt them with a glimpse at the plot.
• Keep it simple. Don’t clutter your clip (it will only confuse)
• Introduce at least the main character and make them as likeable as possible.
• Choose your music carefully. It should complement the visuals NOT detract.
• Just like any good story, take your audience on a quick journey and make them want to finish it!

Here are links to my three favourites (bit of free publicity too!)…

1. Hoot Owl master of disguise

2. I don’t want to be a frog

3. Grandpa Green

It’s hard (and unfair!) to compare my book trailer for Moondust, as I suspect my budget and resources available were even less than those above. But in all honesty, how many marks out of ten would you give this attempt?