To note or not to note? That is the question on the minds of most writers. I am referring to illustration notes. With my books Gertie Save the Day and Two Wins for Wiley I could not be happier with the illustrations. Did I use illustration notes?
Illustration Notes
If you write picture books, you’ll hear a lot of opinions about illustration notes. Some people say they’re a no-no, others say to add them in. One reason for advising against them is: too many writers use illustration notes to micromanage.
As a children’s picture book author I understand the marriage between words and the illustrations. My thoughts might be that an editor or illustrator might view the notes as detracting or I might be overstep with an illustrator.
A Look Back
I did not use illustration notes with either of my stories. My illustrator, Daniela Massironi, received the story in advance of the contract. This allowed time to think about the project and decide if it was the right fit for her. Once the contract was signed we discussed the main character. I was able to send her an image of what I thought Gertie could look like. Based on that image, she was able to sketch Gertie, adding her own flair. With just a few tweaks we had our main character.
Next, it was time to sketch the other characters. Daniela is a talented professional. The text of the story gave her enough ideas to sketch out each of the scenes. It truly was a marriage of the text and the illustrations. I could not have been happier with our collaboration and we are both very proud of this book.
Communication and Respect
Communication and mutual respect made this experience a positive one. My illustrator is very talented. It was one of the reasons why I selected her. I liked how her characters had very expressive faces. We collaborated with the book cover. She took two ideas from me and she added a third choice. It was a book cover illustration that she thought would make an excellent cover. Guess which one I used? Her cover was by far the best.
When I work with an illustrator, I think communication and mutual respect are important. If your path is traditional or if you are freelance writer, you may not have as much input as to the illustrations. With my freelance books there are illustrations that I love and others not so much. Once you finish writing the story some decisions are out of your hands.
Thoughts …
If you use illustration notes in your picture book manuscript, keep them simple, spare, and few in number. The average picture book text will only need one or two, tops.
For me, I do not include them. My fellow authors and critique partners often tell me where I need an illustration note. That comment actually helps me to tighten up my writing or to add a word or sentence to help clarify something without using an illustration note.
To note or not to note. You to decide.
With gratitude …
I am glad you’re here. Thank you for taking the time to read this post. I am grateful that I can share my writing journey with you. It is an endless journey of learning and growing. A journey that I am enjoying.
Have you checked out my website. There are surprises everywhere. Click on the balloons and see where they take you. Can you find two writing videos? Freebies? A chocolate chip recipe? There’s even a special freebie to anyone who subscribes to my monthly newsletter. I have a number of FREE resources for children, parents and teachers that librarians and homeschooling families can download and use.
Important Note
Everyone needs a break now and then. I will be taking a short break from this blog for the month of August. Please enjoy day and come back in September when I will be sharing new and inspirational posts.
A Call to Action …
Hello! Have you subscribed to my monthly newsletter? You will receive book recommendations, freebies, craft ideas and exclusive giveaways. Please share the subscribe link with parents, teachers and librarians and other writers.
Are you interested in an author visit during the 2024-2025 school year? I am now booking visits with schools, PTA event and after school programs. Not local, no problem. Virtual visits are some of my favorites. Let’s talk! Just complete the form here. I look forward to meeting you and your students.
If you have any questions or you would like to share your thoughts about this post, please leave your comments below. Thank you!
