Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Thanks for having me!


I would like to thank Ginger and Amy for thinking about me and inviting me to join the group!
I have been a long time lurker of the Showcase and many of your blogs as well!

Since my first published work arrived in the mail this week I thought my first post should be sharing my favorite image from the book.

What's Wrong with Mud?
is written by Gillian Colley  
the story was the 2007  ABC Picture Book competition winner
and first prize got to go on and become published.

If you are interested in an signed copy. Please email me directly.

I am currently working on a series of three picture books, with the first one due to come out this fall.
I also have a day job as the graphic designer for the Lane Libraries in Ohio. 
Not sure how long that will last.. Projects are starting to pour in unexpectedly!
But no complaining here!!
Thanks again for having me! 
Enjoy!

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

New Book ~ When Wishes Come True ~ By Barbara B Slater

I had heard a few days ago that my copies of the book I illustrated were on their way to me. I am so excited to see it finished and hold it in my hands!
And it is now on Amazon.com as well.

The book I illustrated written by Barbara B Slater through the design director, Carol Pentleton, at the Digital Artist is finally OUT!

"When Wishes Come True" is a wonderful story of love and friendship between two creatures that wished for something different in their lives. When they find each other, a beautiful story unfolds that will capture your heart, and make you laugh and cry .... sometimes all at once. The reviews are worth reading as is Barbara's bio which details her many talents and gives one insight into her generous soul.

As happy as I was with the reviews, I was even happier to have been a part of this beautiful gem of a story.


“When Wishes Come True” , currently available on Amazon.com includes a section titled “Suggested Discussion Questions and Activity Guide” as well as an “Interview with the Author.”

From Amazon a short blurb:
"Make a Wish...It Could Come True.

When Penelope PeaHen and Oliver Owl decide they want to improve their lives, they each make a wish. Unlike most of us, however, they both do something about making their wishes come true. This is the story about how two most unlikely special friends found each other, and themselves."




Saturday, June 6, 2009

Welcome Nikki Shoemaker *:)


The Picture Bookies are pleased to welcome Nikki Shoemaker as a new group member. Her work can be seen on her website and blog. You will be able to find out more about Nikki and her cut paper techniques for creating children's illustrations. You will also see the latest on her new book!
Please take time to welcome Nikki to the group. We are so pleased she has joined us!

SHAMWARI


Shamwari means friend in Africa.
This morning I received a beautiful photo from a "friend" in South Africa. Brettell Hone is the author of the book I illustrated that is out now. "My African Bedtime Rhymes" and he is also a great humanitarian. One of his recent projects involved working with the children of the Appel Farm school in his region presenting a play.

From the photo I chose a composite of several children to create "Shamwari." I had such fun doing this, because the children are so full of delight and energy. Brettell says they have "radioactive" energy and I can just imagine as a former teacher what it takes to corral that energy into positive action. The children are learning Edward Lear's "THE OWL AND THE PUSSYCAT" for their first presentation. Then they will move on to more difficult works.

I am so happy to have been involved in Brettell's book and look forward to hearing more about the children from the Appel School.