Job Description
Children’s Picture Book Illustrator Needed – Simple, Warm Style ($700–$1,100 Budget)
Hello!
I am an author looking for an illustrator for my children's picture book titled “When I Feel Mad.” My story helps young children understand and manage big feelings in a gentle, supportive way.
This will be my first book in a series about emotions, so I’m hoping to find someone I can hopefully work with again in the future.
Book Details
- Target age: 3–6 years old
- Trim size: 8.5 x 8.5 inches (square)
- Total pages: 26 interior pages + cover + back cover
- Estimated illustrations: 10–12 total illustrations (10 full illustrations and 3 to 5 simple spot illustrations)
Some pages will be full spreads, while others may include smaller spot illustrations.
Illustration Style
I’m looking for artwork that feels:
- Simple
- Expressive
- Warm and emotional
- Child-friendly
- Not overly detailed
Examples of styles I love include books like:
- The Rabbit Listened
- Harold and the Purple Crayon
The illustrations should clearly show emotions and be engaging for young children.
I’m looking for a simple, warm children’s illustration style with soft colors and expressive characters. The emotions in the story are very important, so the character’s facial expressions should clearly show feelings like frustration, sadness, and relief. The style should feel comforting and approachable for young children.
The illustrations do not need to be extremely detailed. I’m happy with a simple, charming style similar to classic preschool picture books.
Character Description
Main character:
A young boy (around 4–6 years old)
Short curly blonde hair
Blue eyes
Expressive face (big emotions so kids can see when he’s mad, sad, happy, etc.)
Comfortable, everyday clothes (t-shirt, shorts or pajamas depending on the scene)
Mom:
Warm, gentle, comforting presence
Soft facial expressions
Often kneeling or sitting with the child during emotional moments
Dad:
Appears toward the end at dinner
Friendly and supportive
Deliverables
Final files should include:
- Print-ready interior PDF (300 DPI)
- CMYK color format
- Full wrap cover (front, back, spine)
- Individual illustration files (PNG, PSD, or Procreate)
Interior illustrations should be sized to fit an 8.5 x 8.5 book with bleed.
Files must be compatible with:
- Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing
- IngramSpark
Rights & Requirements
- Original artwork only
- No AI-generated artwork
- All materials must be royalty-free
- Author retains full commercial publishing rights
Budget
My budget for this project is $700–$1,100 total, depending on experience and style.
Timeline
Ideally completed within 6–8 weeks, but this is flexible.
When Applying
Please include:
Your portfolio
Any children’s book illustrations you’ve done
Your estimated timeline
How many illustrations would you estimate for a 26-page picture book?
Are you comfortable delivering files formatted for KDP printing?
I’m excited to find someone whose style connects with this story. Thank you!
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