There’s a special kind of magic in children’s books—the kind that happens when words and pictures dance together to bring a story to life. Whether you’ve written a whimsical bedtime tale, an educational adventure, or a heartfelt story of friendship, finding the right illustrator can transform your manuscript into a book that delights, inspires, and endures.
At the Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards, we’ve celebrated countless beautifully illustrated books over the years, and we know firsthand how powerful that partnership between author and illustrator can be. If you’re just starting your publishing journey, here’s a guide to help you find the perfect illustrator for your book.
1. Start with Your Story’s Soul
Before searching for an illustrator, take time to reflect on your story’s tone, theme, and emotional heartbeat. Is it playful and silly? Gentle and poetic? Bold and action-packed? The style of illustration should echo your story’s personality. Take a moment to visualize how your characters look, what the world around them feels like, and how you want young readers to feel when they turn each page.
Tip: Collect images or books that feel visually aligned with your story. This mood board will help you communicate your vision later.
2. Explore the World of Illustrators
We live in a golden age of access to artistic talent. Explore portfolios on platforms like:
SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators)
Behance
Instagram (search #childrensillustrator or #kidlitart)
Reedsy and Upwork (for freelance professionals)
As you browse, is there anything that catches your eye? Are you drawn to soft watercolor scenes or vibrant digital art? Do the characters feel expressive and full of personality?
Look for illustrators who specialize in the details that matter most to you. Additionally, pritoritize those who have experience with children’s books, as they’ll have a deep understanding of layout, pacing, and the magic of page turns.
3. Reach Out with Respect and Vision
Once you’ve found a few artists you admire, reach out with a warm, professional message. Include:
A short description of your story
What you love about their work
Your vision for the book (number of pages, timeline, publication plans)
A question about their availability and rates
This is the beginning of a creative partnership, so keep your tone collaborative and kind. Great illustrators are storytellers too, so trust them to bring their own heart and insight to the project.
4. Review Contracts Thoughtfully
Once you’ve found “the one,” it’s time to get everything in writing. Make sure you discuss the following:
Payment terms
Timeline
Rights and ownership
Revisions and approvals
Credit and promotion
Don’t be afraid to ask questions beyond this list. This is your story, and clear communication is the foundation of a smooth process.
5. Trust the Creative Process
Let your illustrator do what they do best. You’ve chosen them for their unique gift, so allow space for their imagination to shine. Make sure to stay involved and communicative, but flexible enough that the magical illustrations are born from creative freedom.
Together, you’re not just making a book, you’re shaping an experience that could become a child’s favorite. What an extraordinary honor!
Final Thought: You’re Building Dreams
Children’s books are more than stories—they’re invitations to wonder, courage, empathy, and joy. The right illustrator will help you open that door for young readers, bringing color and life to the words you’ve so lovingly written.
At Moonbeam, we believe that when authors and illustrators come together in harmony, the result is pure magic. May your journey be filled with creativity, connection, and a shared love of storytelling.
P.S. Thinking of submitting your beautifully illustrated book to the Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards? We’d be honored to celebrate your work.
