written elements of picture books

Creators of picture books think carefully about how the written text will appeal to their audience and combine with visual elements to tell the story. They use the following elements:
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Word choice

The language is clever, usually simple and easy to understand.

Each word in this example has been carefully chosen for effect.

In Refugees by David Miller the words on this page are quite harsh and are trying to imitate the sound of guns being fired.
If you're not familiar with Refugees​, you can see the whole book in the video below. ▼
Figurative language

This is language that compares, emphasises and clarifies meaning. For example metaphors and similes.

What is the figurative language on this page?

The Bubble by Josie Montano and Matt Ottley
Repetition

This is when words, phrases or sentences are repeated for emphasis.

It's a Book by Lane Smith.

In this story, the phrase "it's a book" is repeated throughout.
If you're not familiar with It's a Book​, you can see the whole book in the video below. ▼
Intertextuality

These are references made to another event, person, myth, legend, another work or place.

Into the Forest by Anthony Browne makes reference to the story of Red Riding Hood.​
If you're not familiar with Into the Forest, you can see the whole book in the video below. ▼
Rhyme

This is when the ends of words sound the same and follow a pattern for emphasis.

In The Very Cranky Bear by Nick Bland, when the bear is shouting, the text has been put in capital letters.
If you're not familiar with The Very Cranky Bear, you can see the whole book in the video below. ▼
Rhythm

This is where a beat is created through the sounds and order of words.

The House that Jack Built by Simms Taback.
If you're not familiar with The House that Jack Built, you can see the whole book in the video below. ▼