I’ve Learned from Illustrating Children’s Books for Authors Worldwide
Hi there — I’m Ananta Mohanta. I’ve been illustrating children’s books for over 15 years now. Throughout all this time, one thing has remained constant: my love for telling stories with pictures.
When I started out, I didn’t know I’d become children’s book illustrator working with writers from so many countries. Back then, I just liked sketching funny faces on scraps of paper. Today, it’s my full-time life — and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Every Story Teaches Me Something New
If there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that no two books are ever the same. Every new project teaches me something fresh — about children, about colors, about patience, about people. That’s what I love most about being an illustrator for children’s books — there’s always something new around the corner.
When an author trusts me with their story, I know how much it means. They’ve spent nights and days dreaming up their world. It’s my job to bring that world alive through beautiful children’s book illustrations that kids will remember.
Why I Never Take Advance Fees
One lesson I learned early on: trust is everything. Many authors looking for children’s book illustrators for hire worry about paying in advance. I get that. So, I made a promise long ago: I would never take advance payment.
Instead, I do something simple. I make a free character sketch first — a small demo. If the author likes it, then we keep going. If not, no hard feelings. This way, they know exactly what to expect from me. It keeps things honest and stress-free for both sides.
The Secret to Good Character Design
I always say — a good story needs good characters. Over the years, illustrating children’s books, I’ve learned that kids fall in love with faces, funny hair, silly hats, and tiny shoes. Small things matter.
Before I draw, I read the story again and again. I ask the author questions: What makes this character happy? What are they scared of? Then I start sketching. I show it to the author, and we tweak it until it feels just right.
A well-made character turns a simple page into an adventure. That’s what makes a high quality children’s book artist stand out.
What Makes Beautiful Children’s Book Illustrations Special
There’s a big difference between a good illustration and a rushed one. Beautiful children’s book illustrations make kids giggle, point, and ask for the book again tomorrow night.
When I was starting, I sometimes tried to finish pages too fast. I learned quickly — children see everything. They spot when a drawing feels flat. So now, I take my time. I go back, fix tiny details, and change colors until they feel warm and bright.
This is what sets apart high quality children’s book artists from the rest. It’s the love in the details.
Working With Authors All Over the World
One of my favorite parts about this work is meeting authors from different places. Some write about animals in forests, some write about cities and schools — each story is special in its own way.
No matter where they’re from, they all want the same thing: someone they can trust. Someone who’ll listen. Someone who knows how to make children’s book illustrations that feel alive.
Over the years, I’ve worked with first-time writers, big publishers, self-publishers — you name it. It keeps my work fresh and makes me better with every book.
A Few Honest Tips for Authors
If you’re an author reading this, here’s what I’d say — straight from my own table:
- Always check samples. Don’t just look at pretty covers — see if the characters have heart.
- Talk to your illustrator. Good illustrators for children’s books want to know what you’re dreaming about.
- Don’t be shy to ask for changes. A good illustrator will listen.
- If possible, ask for a small sample sketch before making a payment. I always do this — it builds trust.
- Please, don’t choose only by price. Cheap doesn’t always mean good. A high quality children’s book artist can turn your book into something children will beg to read again.
My Promise: Simple and Honest
I always say this to new authors — my work is simple and honest. No advance payments, no big words. Just your story, my pencil, and some color. That’s how good books get made.
Every time I finish a project, I feel grateful. Illustrating children’s books has given me friendships, lessons, and more stories than I can count.
Ready To Bring Your Story to Life?
So, if you’ve got a story inside you, don’t wait. Reach out. I’m always ready to chat, share a free demo, and help you bring your ideas to life on paper.
Together, we’ll create beautiful children’s book illustrations that make children smile and inspire their dreams. That’s what I’ve learned from 15 years in this world — stories matter, art matters, and honest work always shines through.
Thanks for reading — and maybe I’ll draw your story next.
Ananta Mohanta
Children’s Book Illustrator
Bringing little stories to life, one page at a time.
To know more: www.anantaart.com
Pinterest: https://in.pinterest.com/illustratorananta/
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