Lisa J. Michaels
Illustrator, Author, Artist
Some of my favorite spots...
Organizations, Publications, Professionals, etc.
The Society for Children's Book Writers and Illustrators is THE place for information, support and guidance for serious writers and illustrators alike! There are monthly contests, creative kick starts, events, grant information and more. If you really want to be a writer or illustrator of Children's Books, this is the group of professionals you need to join. The SCBWI also has regional chapters, offering monthly critique sessions at no extra cost as well as regional online newsletters for it's members!
http://picture-bookiesshowcase.blogspot.com
Need a really talented illustrator? Here's where you go to find one. Picture-Bookies Showcase is a great place to view Picture Book illustrations by many of the top illustrators in the business of Children's Literature. Each week, over 50 carefully chosen illustrators post their work pertaining to a selected theme.
Are you ready to get serious about submitting your manuscript? Ever wonder how some writers make it past the mighty slush pile? Speaker, published author and marketing coach, Molli Nickell can help you learn how to craft the perfect cover or query letter that will get you noticed. This user-friendly site offers valuable insider information from knowledgable, reliable sources.
Want to know what other illustrators are doing these days? Here's a list of over 350 illustrators and their portfolios, plus an agent showcase and a current best seller list. You'll find that the competition out there is rough. It's no wonder it takes so long to break into the business of Picture Books! There is so much talent on this site that it can be very intimidating!
This is yet another place where illustrators can go to see what the competition is up to or (for a fee) you can show your work here too.
An on-line resource for Children's Book illustrators, publishers and book lovers. Here you will find answers to questions regarding marketing, writing, publishing, royalties and much, much more.
This is a great place to start when you're a newbie in the business. You get all kinds of articles and tips for writing children's books for FREE! It does take a bit of searching to find what you want, but it's so worth it!
Harold Underdown's website, "The Purple Crayon" is also a great source of info for those who are just starting out. You can find out about every aspect of the business of writing, illustrating and publishing Children's Books. This is also a great place for viewing sample query and cover letters.
http://members.aol.com/thedrawing
"The Drawing Board" is a place for information and resources specifically for illustrators. This is a fantastic place for newbies to start out. You'll find information on building your own website, storyboarding, animation and so much more!
Need inspiration? This is a great place to get it. A new subject is posted every week for artist/illustrators of all ages.
Other Fine Illustrators
www.ginapfleegor.comCheck out this illustrator's portfolio! Gina's got a style and sense of humor that appeals to kids and parents alike. Once you see her cleverly detailed illustrations, you'll understand why "I Like Gum!"(Shenanigan Books) is a must have for your Picture Book library.
"Who Put the 'B' in Ballyhoo?"(Houghton/Mifflin) is a perfect example of this talented illustrators abilities. Step under the big top on Carlyn's site and you'll be amazed by the characters you find!
Giselle McMenamin's portfolio of wonderful Picture Book illustrations is a must see if you love a little whimsey and a lot of color. While you're there, don't forget to take a dip in the pool, it's very refreshing!
Do you love fairies, dragons or mermaids? I sure do. Lisa Victoria has some of the prettiest I've seen, right here on-line for your viewing pleasure. You can even purchase originals, prints, note cards, etc., right from her site!
Other Fun Places to Visit
Find out how this successful self-published author creates her stories. This site is packed with great publishing tips, links & activities for youngsters and adults!
*Please note that these websites are recommended by Lisa J. Michaels but their content and the opinions they express are theirs alone. Lisa J. Michaels is not responsible for any damages which may occur while viewing said sites, and shall remain harmless should any legal issues arise from the use of the above information or the information obtained on these websites.
