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illustration Picture Book writing

The Different Hats of Writing and Illustrating

In his tweet, Eric Merced reminded me how much of a challenge it can be to write and illustrate a book. When it’s a one-man show, you have to make so many decisions and switch your work mode so many times during the process.

It is so much more challenging than just writing. Now I realize that may offend some authors. If that’s the case, I understand, but I think you would agree that switching from writing, to drawing, to designing and putting it all together would take so much more than just the writing.

I suppose that is why I have such a soft spot for authors/illustrators. It has confounded me that picture books and graphic novels may be looked down on by the literary elite. The effort that goes into these books continue to amaze me.

So hats off to the solo writers, illustrators and designers that wear so many hats as they create outstanding work!

Is there a book you love that is written and illustrated by the same person? Let us know in the comments.

Cartoon of a couple at dinner
Categories
Book Review

2012 Children’s Writer’s & Illustrator’s Market

I got this book over the weekend. I was excited when I saw it on a book shelf. It means the new year can start, even if it is two months early.

I noticed this year’s edition has more articles for the beginners in the front of the book. The markets are changing rapidly and this is addressed in the beginning pages. I was disappointed to see the articles cover the writing end of the market, but don’t address the needs of the illustrators. I would like to see more coverage on how to make it as an illustrator as well as a writer.

Fortunately, there is plenty of information for illustrators within the publisher’s entries.

You can click on the image to order a copy through Amazon.com. Happy submitting, everyone!