I have written a picture book. My intention is that the illustrations will tell as much of the story as the text...that's the point of a picture book, yes?...but how do I communicate what the illustration should be in the manuscript? Is it completely ridiculous/bad form to have what the illustration should be in parenthesis?

For example: I don't want to add all the text it would take for the reader to understand that the result of Jim dropping the giant glass panda is that he has to spend his $5 to pay for the panda and not on his favorite action figure. All of that could be said in a fabulous, whimsical illustration that shows a pathetically bummed out Jimbo left holding only the $5 price tag from the panda and standing next to the store clerk who is pointing to a sign that says, "You break it you buy it" which happens to be right next to the other sign that says to "visit the toy aisle to get your very own $5!!". This is one example of an event that has to be told for the plot of the story, but it is better said in an illustration. Besides, I don't want to have too many words.

So, next question..... How much input, if any, does the writer have in the illustrations?

. I realize that for someone that has never been published, I am being more particular than I should be....fully recognize that....I just think that the WHOLE story should be told, and that means that the pictures say as much as the words. That's what would maintain the integrity of the book. I think that it's good for young minds to learn how to assess a visual situation, anyway.

I am looking forward to some feedback! Thanks in advance!!!