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December 30, 2017

Self-Publishing a Children’s Book: My Journey Working With an Illustrator

Many of you know of my writing exploits. Recently, I wrapped up the illustration phase of self-publishing a children's book. It required a surprising amount of effort that was largely based on my naivety. After writing the manuscript, I researched and interviewed freelance illustrators on a freelancer online platform. After finding one I thought would be a perfect fit for my manuscript material, we began working together under contract.

December 2, 2017

How Martha Saved Her Parents from Green Beans Review: A Funny Children’s Book About Vegetables

Let me just start off by saying it this way. My son doesn't typically ask to keep library books. But the other night, after reading How Martha Saved Her Parents from Green Beans by writer David Larochelle and artist Mark Fearing, two times mind you, he quite legitimately asked if we could keep it.

Now, I don't care who you are, it begs a question. What is there to this children's book that would cause him to say such an unexpected thing? My wife and I have read thousands of books to him and, while he may not want to return a book to the library right away, he rarely asks to keep them.

December 1, 2017

Illustrator Jo Painter on Creativity, Freelancing, and Breaking Into the Game Industry

Jo Painter is a freelance illustrator, concept artist, and animator whose creative journey began with little more than MS Paint, a computer mouse, and a determination to improve. Since then, she has worked with authors and companies around the world while building a portfolio aimed at the video game industry. In this interview, we discuss artistic growth, freelancing, client relationships, animation, technology, creativity, and what aspiring artists can learn from building a career in a competitive field.

August 22, 2017

Why Great Books Are More Than Just Products

Books are often treated like products, but the best books do far more than fill shelf space or generate sales. A meaningful story can challenge beliefs, shape emotions, create connection, inspire change, and stay with readers for years after the final page. That is why writing books is not simply about producing content. Great books provide an experience — one that leaves a lasting impact on the reader.