[K. Gaspy Posts: 7 Status: Offline Aspiring Author/Illustrator WWW]

Hello!
I’ve written (and illustrated) a children’s picture book that is fiction but gives facts about sharks.  Do I list the works cited. I’ve only used online websites for reference information, no quotes.

[JulieM Posts: 988 Status: Offline WWW]

Yes. It's not part of the word count, but you do include a "References Used in Preparing this Manuscript" section at the end of your submission (or Bibliography, References, or however you'd like to word it) to show you have done your research. They need to be reliable websites (e.g. museums, government agencies).
Wikipedia can be useful to put you on the trail of some reliable sources (cited at the bottom of each wiki article), but should not be listed in your submission.
Good luck with your submission! (I love sharks.)

[Vijaya Posts: 7,172 Status: Offline Encourage WWW]

I always include my sources and try to have some kid-friendly books to recommend at the end. My editors appreciate this very much.

[dkshumaker Posts: 1,448 Status: Offline WWW]

Agreed. Include the works cited but be sure they're reliable sources. .gov or .org or .edu. If .com, I'd be sure to dig around and be certain that another source validates your information. I agree with Vijaya - Wikipedia is great as a starting point!

[sophielynette Posts: 72 Status: Offline You're never too old for penguins! WWW]

I've found that zoo/aquarium websites often have good information, especially since a lot of them are actively involved in animal research -- but again I'd verify your information with multiple sources.

[K. Gaspy Posts: 7 Status: Offline Aspiring Author/Illustrator WWW]

Thanks everyone! Very helpful.

I’ve made sure to use credible sources. 🦈👩‍🏫

Oh, also, should I use MLA format?

[Vijaya Posts: 7,172 Status: Offline Encourage WWW]

MLA is fine. Just be consistent.

[K. Gaspy Posts: 7 Status: Offline Aspiring Author/Illustrator WWW]

Thank you!