Having written a children’s book and decided to self-publish, the writer has to take the next big step: Zero in on an illustrator. And not just any illustrator, because quality illustrations are a critical factor in ensuring marketing success of a children’s book.
Professional Illustrator
If you want a pleasant collaboration, find an illustrator who is reliable, quick, flexible and programmed to deliver complete customer satisfaction. Check the antecedents and do a background check of the illustrator. Also spend some time checking on the experience and past work of the illustrator to ensure that you are comfortable with the illustration styles available to you.
Committed Illustrator
An illustrator who will make the time and commitment to understand your story. If you doubt the importance of a writer-illustrator partnership, think back to Roahl Dahl and Quentin Blake. It was the deep understanding of Roahl Dahl’s prose that gave birth to Blake’s the quirky little visuals that immortalized books like ‘Matilda’, ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ and ‘BFG’.
So a writer needs an illustrator who understands the particular sensibility of the book and provides for appropriate illustrations. The harmony of this collaboration is critical to commercial success of a book.
Flexible Illustrator
The illustrator needs to be open-minded and adaptable in his approach. He should be willing to make as many changes as is required to get the illustration perfectly tuned to your needs. Your satisfaction at getting a beautiful book in your hands should be his highest priority.
Money Matters
Get an illustrator who is willing to work out an easy financial arrangement with you. There are illustrators out there who will do quality work at realistic rates. Wonderful visuals do not always mean breaking the bank! Even better if you can find one who saves you the accounting hassles that comes with sharing royalties.
A package Deal with illustrators
Many first time children’s writers find that the easiest route to publication is through experienced illustrators who will partner them through the entire process. From finished manuscript to bookstore shelves. This keeps the writer in touch with creative expression related to the book, while letting a reliable partner handle the logistical worries of getting the book published.
