In the context of children's books, a working draft refers to a preliminary version of a manuscript that an author creates before it is polished and submitted for publication. This draft is often experimental, allowing the writer to explore ideas, narratives, and character development. Feedback from editors, agents, or peers is typically sought on a working draft to improve the story's structure, language, and overall appeal. It is a crucial step in the writing process, serving as the foundation for subsequent revisions that lead to the final manuscript.