Freelance Illustrator Wanted - Children’s Picture Book

About the Project I’m a first-time children’s book author working on a read-aloud picture book for ages 3–6. The story follows an animal narrator guiding young readers through the exciting (and sometimes nerve-wracking) transition of starting Kindergarten or school — reimagined as an adventure through a vibrant fantasy kingdom. I’m looking for a talented freelance illustrator to bring this world to life. The Book • Audience: Ages 3–6, read-aloud format (parents/caregivers reading to child) • Theme: Easing the transition to starting school, told through a gentle fantasy adventure • Narrator: An animal character who guides the reader through the kingdom • Setting: A whimsical fantasy kingdom • Cast: Diverse, POC main and supporting characters • Tone: Warm, reassuring, playful — comforting for a nervous child, engaging for a read-aloud What I’m Looking For • Style: Bright, saturated colors; warm and inviting — think joyful and expressive rather than muted or moody • Character design: Ability to design a memorable, expressive animal narrator plus a diverse cast of human children and adults, with thoughtful, authentic representation of POC characters • World-building: Comfortable illustrating a fantasy kingdom setting — castles, magical landscapes, whimsical architecture • Experience: Prior children’s book illustration experience strongly preferred; please share a portfolio or sample pages • Age-appropriateness: Understanding of what visually engages and reassures young children (3–6), including page composition that supports read-aloud pacing Scope of Work • Character design and development (narrator + core cast) • Full interior illustrations for 20 pages • Front and back cover illustration • [Optional: sketches/rough layouts for approval before final art] • Revisions: 3 Deliverables • High-resolution final files (print-ready, e.g. 300 DPI, CMYK) • Source/layered files (if applicable) • Cover art (front, back, spine) Timeline • Start date: Sept 2026 • Draft illustrations due: Oct 2026 • Final files due: TBD Budget • $2,000- $5,000 (depending on deliverables and experience) • 50% deposit, 50% on completion / milestone-based How to Apply Please send: 1. A link to your portfolio (children’s book work preferred) 2. 2–3 samples most relevant to this project’s style and themes 3. Your standard rate structure and estimated availability 4. A brief note on your interest in the project I’m excited to find a creative partner who can help make this story feel warm, joyful, and reassuring for kids starting a big new chapter. Looking forward to seeing your work!