In the fourth chapter of Ecclesiastes we are told that two can stand back-to-back and conquer. However, three are even better — for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.

As an author, this war-like imagery is powerful because writing a children’s book is not for sissies. One must be mighty to undertake such a task. For this reason, I knew it would take a fearless team to create Do You Like Peas?

In my last blog post, you met Megan Campbell-Curl, co-author of Do You Like Peas? In this post, I would like to introduce you to the third strand of our not-easily-broken-cord, illustrator Beth Snider. I did not know Beth before this book project, but it did not take long to learn she is both beautiful and mighty. Beth is charming, fun, and super talented!

During the book writing process, we met at Panera Bread. And although we talked all-things-book, on many occasions the conversation easily turned to discussing life, Jesus, children and all kinds of things friends chat about. Many of our meetings could’ve been much shorter except I simply loved spending time with Beth! After working with her for almost a year, I can say Beth is completely committed to three things: her craft, her family, and Jesus.

To help you get to know Beth a little better, I asked her three questions:

How does one become a children’s book illustrator?

Illustrators learn the skills of drawing, practice doing art on a daily basis for years, and take time to build an interesting portfolio. They share their work publicly and join communities of other children’s book artists, authors and designers. They let everyone know they are available to hire as a children’s book artist and eventually they will be approached by interested authors. 

How is illustrating for a children’s book different than other types of illustrations?

Illustrating a children’s book requires the skill of being able to draw the same things over and over again while keeping them looking consistent. It takes a great amount of endurance and commitment to draw a whole book because you are not simply drawing the 30 or so finished pages but many more sketches and discarded versions in preparation for the finished book. 

Why do you think it takes a team/soldier effort to create a children’s book?

Creating a children’s book is not something that can be approached lightly. It takes time and effort. It takes patience and support. This type of project requires a special kind of commitment to the process and a dedication to getting the end result just right. 

What an honor it is to work with such a lovely and professional artist. THANKS BETH!

 

 

You can learn more about Beth at Beth Snider Art.