Three Inspiring Books about Picture Books

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Hi,

I thought I would share three books I have found inspiring and which have helped me with writing, and editing my own picture book stories.

1. Writing Picture Books by Ann Whitford Paul, published by Penguin Random House

I have dipped in and out of this book since I bought it, but recently I read it from cover to cover. It takes you through all the stages of creating a picture book text, from generating ideas, to editing your story, to finding an agent (if you decide you’d like one) to publishing and beyond.

There are loads of great tips and ideas as well as lots of picture book recommendations to inspire you along the way.

The bit I have found most useful so far has been the editing tips, they have helped me refine a picture book text I have been working on and it’s sounding a lot more succinct.

I am sure I will be returning to this book again and again.

2. Picture Book Makers by Various Creators, published by dPictus

Firstly, this book is wonderful to just hold, I love the textured matt cover.

You just have to read the list of contributors to this book to know it is full of amazing artwork, another one to come back to again and again. I actually keep this one on my drawing desk in case I need a bit of inspiration.

Every few pages you are introduced to a new author/ illustrator, and they take you through the process of making one of their picture books.

It’s a perfect way to see how different artists create their books and how their style and approach differ from each other.

3. Wonder by Beatrice Blue, published by 3DTotal Publishing

I have had my eye on this book for a long while and finally treated myself to it last Christmas, and was not disappointed!

I really admire the work of Beatrice Blue and love her series of picture books ‘Once upon a Unicorn’s Horn’, ‘Once Upon a Dragon’s Fire’, ‘Once Upon a Mermaid’s Tail’ and ‘Once Upon a Witch’s Broom’ (which I still need to read!)

The characters that Beatrice Blue creates are quirky and original, and I love the way she uses colour and light. So it was a treat to read about how she came to picture books after studying tradition oil painting.

Beatrice explains how she sees the world, which I think reflects so well in her magical work. The book is also jam packed with her sketches and finshed drawings, including a wonderful fold-out scene. I am so pleased to have this one as part of my collection, it’s a truly inspiring read.

Do you have any other book recommendations? I’d love to hear about them in the comments.

Thank you.

Until next time,

Sarah