As a children's book illustrator, I have had the opportunity to not only illustrate my book, The Mermaid & The Grumpy Old Clam, but also to illustrate books for other children's book authors. Over time, I have learned that in a children’s picture book, illustration is an integral part of the storytelling, not just an addition to it. Images help shape how a story is understood and felt, especially for young readers who experience books visually before they can fully read the text. Illustration guides attention, sets mood, and invites children into the world of the story from the very first page. But that's my take. What do YOU think about the illustrations in a children's book?

Let’s support each other as children’s book authors and actually connect in a meaningful way! 1️⃣ Comment your Instagram link below (Just drop the link to your profile) 2️⃣ Scroll through the comments and check out other authors’ accounts 3️⃣ Follow, like, or comment on accounts you genuinely enjoy or feel drawn to No pressure to follow everyone; support who you connect with! This is not a follow-for-follow thread. This is about building real relationships, cheering each other on, and finding fellow authors you actually want to stay connected with! Take a minute to support someone else before you hop out! Authors supporting authors always wins! 💪

Let’s see what everyone in the community has been creating! Whether your book is brand new, has been published for years, or is somewhere in between, drop it in the comments below and tell us a little bit about it! 1️⃣ Share your book cover in the comments (Bonus points if you include a link where we can check it out!) 2️⃣ Tell us what your book is about Keep it short! A sentence or two is perfect. 3️⃣ Check out another author’s book Scroll through the comments, find a book that catches your eye, and show that author some support! This isn’t about competing or comparing. It’s a chance to celebrate what you’ve created, discover other children’s books, and support fellow authors in the community. Take a minute to show another author some love before you hop out! Authors supporting authors always wins! 💪

I would love to see some of the creations you all have published! I've been working all summer and finally published my first work in my Once Upon a Hollow Series, called Stitch in Mischief! I also published a coloring book to go with that story. This journey has been so much fun! Can we share some of our books on here and see what we've all been up to?

Hi everyone excited to be apart of this community. Question for you all.. I am a first time children's book author and my book is now in its final stages with the illustrator. She should complete end of November. I will be up and going on Amazon KDP before Christmas. What are some tips on Marketing for a successful Christmas launch? I will be using all social media platforms and my own website.