Creative Services
A Personalized Creative Partnership
From your words
to a finished book
you'll be proud
to share.
Some books begin with a manuscript.
Others begin with
a family tradition,
a cherished memory,
or a dream worth sharing.
Whether you're publishing for readers
around the world or creating
a one-of-a-kind keepsake for your
own family, I'll guide you through
every step of bringing your story to life.
Experience you can trust
Creating children's books has been my
full-time focus — not just a side project —
for more than 25 years.
During that time, I've had the privilege of illustrating and designing books for publishers, authors, educational companies, and families who wanted to create something truly meaningful.
Everything your Book needs
Creating a children's book should be exciting — not overwhelming.
I'll walk beside you through the entire process, making each step clear, collaborative, and enjoyable so you can focus on sharing your story.
Every project is customized to your story and may include:
• Custom illustrations
• Cover design and title treatment
• Interior layout and typography
• Print-ready production files
• eBook formatting
• ISBN and metadata guidance
• Printer recommendations
• Professional publishing support
Plus countless thoughtful details that help transform a manuscript into a beautifully crafted book.
Every story is different
Some books are written to reach readers around the world.
Others are created as a lasting gift for one child.
Some celebrate family traditions.
Others preserve memories, share important life lessons,
or leave a legacy for future generations.
No two authors — or books — are alike.
That's why every project begins with listening.
What it's like to work together
My role isn't simply to illustrate your manuscript.
It's to understand what matters most to you.
Throughout your project, you'll have one person to
answer questions, explore ideas, offer honest guidance,
and help you make confident decisions from beginning to end.
My goal is to make the creative journey
every bit as rewarding as the finished book.
Kind Words
Omar Lockerbie
Co-author of "Bee-coming a Family"
" April was the missing puzzle piece that brought our story to life."
When we had a vague idea of what we wanted, she took those ideas and gave us several art styles to choose from. Her beautiful art, professional, and timeliness; brought our story to life before our son got here so we could share this story with him, and hopefully countless others, who have a story similar to ours.
Vibrant, expressive, and filled with the kind of warmth and detail that instantly draw readers in. She brought my characters to life in ways that exceeded anything I could have imagined. If you’re looking for an illustrator who combines exceptional skill with an equally exceptional work ethic and spirit, April is the one.
Lisa Forde
Creative Leader and Art Director
"My First Book of Emotions for Toddlers"
" April always goes above and beyond."
April was such a pleasure to work with. Her style is so unique and warm. The "Emotions Book for Toddlers" that she illustrated under my Art Direction has sold exceedingly well, and her work was a driving force behind those sales.
I worked really hard on crafting my words to create an impactful story that I would be proud to share with my daughter. However, to make the story engaging for children, I wanted illustrations that were not only beautiful but also very tasteful. That's what April did. She is absolutely amazing at what she does and was a pleasure to work with.
Our creative process
1
Conversation
We'll talk about your story, your goals, and your vision.
The project's scope and timeline are solidified.
2
Planning
Together we'll develop a mood board —
establishing the illustration style and creative direction.
We'll explore opportunities for personalization —
your child's likeness, favorite places or toys, and the silly inside jokes.
3
Creation
Ideas become sketches.
Sketches become illustrations.
Illustrations become a book.
4
Celebration
Hold your finished book in your hands —
and share it with the people who matter most.
Publishing Guidance
Not sure which publishing path is right for you?
If you're pursuing traditional publishing, an illustrator is typically selected by the publisher.
If you're planning to self-publish, I'll guide you through each step of creating a professional, print-ready book.
I'm also happy to explain the differences between traditional publishing, self-publishing, and vanity presses so you can make informed decisions before investing your time and money.
Investment
Every book is unique.
Project pricing is customized after reviewing your manuscript and discussing your goals.
Before you begin...
My gift for you
Whether we work together or not,
I hope this guide helps you
ask the right questions,
avoid common mistakes, and move forward with confidence.
Let's connect on Instagram
The work doesn't stop here.
Instagram is where I share newly released books, recent illustrations,
school visits, YouTube projects, and the many ways I continue
encouraging children through stories, art, and creativity.
Please tell me a little about your project
