In children's book publishing, a "sample" refers to a limited portion of a book, such as a chapter or a few pages. These samples are crucial for potential readers, parents, and educators as they provide a glimpse into the narrative style, illustrations, and overall themes of the book. By reading a sample, one can assess whether the content aligns with their interest or meets the developmental needs of the child. Samples are often used in marketing, allowing publishers to generate buzz before the full release of the book.