Picture Book Maker(s) is a newsletter where we unlock those small doors together! I'm a picture book maker who believes these deceptively simple books can change the world—one page turn at a time.

Picture books are books, and that is silly to say, but they are under appreciated and often treated as a lesser, more simplified book when in reality they stand right next to any art form that can captivate and change culture in a deep and meaningful way. Where else can you find philosophy, art, and storytelling working together in such whimsical ways? The picture book format deserves our respect and to be treated like any art form that a maker uses to share their experiences.

Is this for me?

Maybe? Do you enjoy picture books? This newsletter is for, but not limited to:

• those who love picture books.

• those who are curious

• those who are ages 4 to 99

• those who love to read

• other makers and storytellers

What is this?

This newsletter explores picture books and their makers, examining both craft and storytelling. I'll analyze design elements including composition, layout, typography, color, and more while also discussing narrative choices, emotional impact, and historical context. As a picture book maker myself, I'll share how these works influence my own creative habits, processes and developments.

About me.

‘What are Picture Books (to me)?’

The quote "Don't hope, cope" by Tomi Ungerer (one of my absolute favorite quotes) perfectly captures what I've learned from nearly a decade in childcare. Children don't always seek happy endings in their play, they aren’t interested in the nice and neat ending or the hopeful message. Instead, they are coping with the things going on in their lives and role-playing the darker elements of life as they continue to make sense of the world and cope with it. This is what makes children's storytelling powerful – it should address mature themes honestly, giving space for kids in grown up conversations and without condescension. These stories should continue to push the envelop of what a picture book is and what it is believed to be. Picture books shouldn't just recycle old narratives with fresh illustrations. They should break new ground and respect children's intelligence. Even bedtime stories should spark imagination. The rich tradition of picture books deserves to be both honored and challenged as the art form continues to be pushed and evolves.

The process itself of creating picture books through writing and illustration is my sanctuary. It centers me, offering a meditative space where I can explore my thoughts and emotions. Through this work, I find my clearest form of self-expression.