Ariel mentioned that sometimes editors have an illustrator (or multiple illustrators) in mind when they take a book to acquisitions, but usually they have an idea of what they want for the illustrations without having a specific name. They discuss what the manuscript needs with their designer or art director.

She said, “Let’s say it’s really character driven, and it’s a human character. Then we’re really going to be looking at how an illustrator does humans and body language and facial expressions and emotions. Or if it’s an animal manuscript, and it really kind of cutesy and sweet, we’re going to look for that. There’s a wide range of every manuscript that has it’s own needs and demands. Sometimes we’re looking for humor. Sometimes we’re looking for page turns.”

When it comes to finding illustrators, Ariel said, “Often they’re pulling illustration samples from Instagram or the artist’s website or wherever.” So, it’s really important to keep your portfolio current on your website. In the class, Ariel also mentioned Etsy as a place that editors and art directors look for illustrators. I’d never thought of Etsy before!

Melissa pointed out that, at Chronicle Books, they include writers in the process of choosing an illustrator, but there are some publishers that don’t. So, if you’re a picture book writer who would like to be included in those decisions, that might be something to ask about before signing a book contract.

However, she did add, “there are lots of ways to make a good book.” You’re probably in good hands, whether you get to weigh in on the decision or not. Publishers invest a lot of money to make a picture book, and they want it to be successful just as much as you do.

Do you have any questions? If so, you can ask them in the comments!

Thanks for reading!