See Your Story Illustrated
Before You Spend a Cent
I'll illustrate one full spread from your actual manuscript, completely free. You'll see exactly how your book will look in my style before you commit to anything.
Send Me Your Story
Not a form person? Some authors would rather just talk.
Email me at inquiry@readnlearn.com or message me on Facebook, whichever feels easier.
This Is My Style
Warm, expressive, character-focused illustration. Take a look at the spreads below. If this fits the book you’re imagining, send me your story. If you’re picturing something different, that’s okay too. Finding the right fit is what matters most for your book.
What Happens After You Hit Send
Within 24 hours, you’ll get a personal reply from me. Not an autoresponder.
Within 3-4 business days (depending on current project load), you’ll receive:
- Text-to-page breakdown: I’ll split your story across pages and show you my suggested illustration plan for each spread
- One fully illustrated spread: I’ll create one custom spread (your choice or my recommendation) showing exactly how your book will look
- Style discussion: We’ll talk through the illustration approach, character designs, and overall visual direction
This gives you everything you need to decide if we should work together on the full project. If the answer is yes, wonderful. If it’s not the right fit, you’ve lost nothing and learned a lot about how your book wants to be illustrated.
Why I Do This for Free
The most successful book projects start when both the author and the illustrator know they’re aligned on style and vision before any money changes hands. After 63 published books, I’ve learned that one custom spread answers that question better than any portfolio review or phone call ever could.
I open a small number of free spread spots each month, first come, first served. When the monthly spots are filled, custom spreads are available for $150 for immediate service, or you can join the waitlist for next month’s free spots.
This limited model lets me give each request real attention while protecting time for the educational apps I build for children with learning differences, the mission behind everything I do.
Who You'll Be Working With
Don't Know Your Book's Dimensions Yet?
Questions Authors Ask Before Sending Their Story
Is my manuscript confidential?
Completely. I never share or reuse story content submitted through this page. Your story stays between us.
Who owns the custom spread?
The custom spread remains my copyrighted work until you hire me for the full project, at which point full usage rights for your book come with the project. The spread also cannot be used for AI training purposes by anyone.
Does my manuscript need to be finished?
No, a working draft is fine. It just needs to be written, so I have an actual story to illustrate. If you’re still only at the idea stage, save this offer for when your draft is ready, then send it my way
Is there really no catch?
No catch. A limited number of spreads are free each month. If the spots are taken, you can wait for next month or get immediate service for $150. Either way, there’s no obligation to hire me afterward.
Is there anything you don't illustrate?
I specialize in kid-friendly content. I don’t illustrate explicit violence, mature themes, or content inappropriate for children. I’m comfortable with serious topics handled with care. For example, I’ve illustrated historical events involving dramatic scenes, told in a way that’s appropriate for young readers.
How fast will I hear from you?
I personally reply within 24 hours, and your illustrated spread arrives within 3 to 4 business days depending on my current project load.
