How to Be a Children’s Book Illustrator

PAGE TURNER Do you harbour aspirations of bringing a picture book to life through your art, for younger readers to enjoy? Then read on...

How to Be a Children’s Book Illustrator aims to make your picture book artwork stand out on the shelves. For the first 40 pages of the book, children’s illustrator Ruth Hammond covers a range of points you’ll need to consider when tackling a picture book project. Illustrating such books is often seen as a straightforward assignment. Yet Ruth reveals there are many factors that will influence your creative approach. These include recognising your audience, maintaining the narrative, and ensuring that the child (and parent) stays interested.

Ruth’s text is accompanied by artwork that helps to drive the point home. Whether it’s a child brushing their teeth or subtle visuals that hint at a character’s imminent adventure, her paintings expertly back up her advice.

In the second portion of the book, eight artists illustrate stories aimed at children aged two to eight years. Each illustrator then explains their process: character design, page layout, mood and more are covered in detail.

If you see yourself as the next Dr. Seuss, then this book is a must-read.

RATING ★★★★★

Alternate poses and expressions for Florence the Talking Carrot, as drawn by US illustrator Kyle Beckett.

Canadian illustrator Kate Pellerin, also known as Poopikat, reveals how she makes her character work within any environment.