A small piece of advice for first-time picture book authors If you’re a first-time picture book author reaching out to illustrators, here’s something that can make the entire process smoother from the start: Do your research — and be intentional in your outreach. Take time to look through portfolios. Notice which styles genuinely resonate with you. Pay attention to the kinds of stories an illustrator seems drawn to. And when you reach out, mention why you chose them. Reference a piece of work that stood out to you. Share a brief summary of your story. Be honest about timeline, goals, and where you are in the process. This kind of clarity helps illustrators understand your vision faster, and lets us determine whether we’re the right fit for your project. Picture books are collaborative by nature. Strong communication at the beginning sets the tone for everything that follows. — If you enjoy posts like this, I share more behind-the-scenes thoughts on creativity, illustration, and tips for authors in my newsletter: 👉
Research and Reach Out: Tips for First-Time Picture Book Authors
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Ever bought a book, read two chapters… and never finished it? That used to happen to me a lot. Not because the writing was bad, but because I had no visible sense of the journey. To get that sense, I designed StoryMate bookmarks: visual markers that draw the story structure—rising action, twists, and turning points. No spoilers! Just structure. This article explores how visual bookmarks can evolve into: – Reading maps – Teaching aids – Therapeutic tools – And even become a product or business opportunity for bookstores, libraries, and stationery brands If you’re interested in building meaning into everyday objects, this can resonate with you. You will see how small objects can have a surprisingly large surface area for innovation. 👉 Link in the comments #ReadingHabits #DesignThinking #EverydayObjects #BusinessOfDesign #LearningTools #UXBeyondScreens #AnalogExperience #Storytelling #StationeryDesign
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🫡 Pick what suits your taste: Just as there is no perfect writer, there is no perfect illustrator. Choose an illustrator whose art style appeals to you and aligns with your content style (fiction, number books, etc.). 🫡 Choose artists who match your book genre: Having done your homework and gone through different illustrators' portfolio, pick one whose kind of media is commonly used within your book genre. An illustrator who specializes in a children animal book is likely to suit your taste. 🫡Be sure your illustrator understands your book: Ensure your illustrator reads your script and understands it. After which, it is advisable to request a character sketch test from your prospective illustrator. Do not be scared to ask for revisions #officialacain #childrenbookauthors #childrenbookillustrators #childrenbooks
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