Books for kids, teens, & those who are young at heart

Category: Art (Page 1 of 9)

More Indies, More Voices – A Guest Post by Author/Illustrator Parker Milgram

Thank you so much to Katie for inviting me as a guest blogger, I am excited to share with you all about my newest picture book, Chameleon in Training.

Chameleons and Camouflage

The story features two chameleons, Commander Jackson and Edna, who have very different approaches to staying alive. Jackson, the camouflage master, is adamant on teaching Edna the proper blending techniques, but she prefers to do things her own way.

The core concept actually came to me when I was brainstorming for an entirely different book. During my stream of ideas, I drew a small sketch of what ended up becoming the spread “Feet Blue” and Chameleon in Training was born. Like most of my book ideas, I didn’t understand the concept right away, I didn’t know what the final book would look like, whether it would be a character-driven narrative or more of a wordless art book. But from the very beginning, I felt so connected with the concept. 

The Struggle with Blending In

A chameleon who doesn’t want to blend in? Story of my life. I remember from a young age not fitting in, at first it was due to gender, not conforming to stereotypical gender preferences as a kid, and then later having mental health issues and sensory sensitivities that made me stick out in school. I wore noise-blocking headphones and felt like a lot of people didn’t understand how uncomfortable I was without sensory accommodations.

I think with Edna’s story, I am in a way reclaiming a lot of hurt I experienced as a child, being ridiculed or reprimanded for not being able to do things in certain ways at school, or not conforming to gender norms. 

I hope that, especially for neurodivergent readers out there, Chameleon in Training brings a sense of joy, and also reassurance, that your differences bring positivity into the world.

Diversity in Publishing

There is so much strength in diversity of thought, and I am excited to see so many new titles now featuring autistic characters, and characters with other forms of neurodivergence and/or gender nonconformity.

I’ve noticed as my career has progressed that people have given me feedback, saying they like how I “see the world” or think I have a “unique art style.” I think this distinct perspective people sense is at least in part due to my neurodivergence, and it feels validating to have my differences now celebrated. 

Post Meridiem Press    

Chameleon in Training and my other recent picture book I Live for the Sun were published by Post Meridiem Press, an independent publishing imprint I started to promote content less represented in the traditional publishing industry.

I tried, very briefly, to get a literary agent in 2021-2022, but didn’t receive much interest from the agencies I queried. I hear a lot from traditionally published authors that it takes a LONG time to get an agent, and it’s important to be persistent. This is true, and for those people who stick with it and land an agent and traditional publishing deal—kudos to you.

But, for me, I just felt like I kept writing new stories and querying new agents, and rejection after rejection, no one was getting to read my stories (save for my critique group and close friends/family—you guys are great!).

With my own independent publishing imprint, I have a professional platform to share my work. I don’t sacrifice the quality of work, I put forth my best effort, conducting thorough research for projects and leaning on my critique group for feedback. But I don’t need a “green light” from a team of traditional publishing professionals approving my ideas. 

Confidence through Independent Publishing

I think creating the Post Meridiem Press brand has also given me newfound confidence in the direction of my work. I’ve always enjoyed concept development and experimenting with styles in the process. With independent publishing, I feel empowered to pursue any style I want. I don’t feel restricted to a certain topic, format, or design approach.

For my most recent picture book, Chameleon in Training, I worked in a looser, digital style, which I felt best reflected the protagonist’s free-spirited, nonconforming personality. For my picture book I Live for the Sun I went for a mixed media approach, using lots of materials including acrylic paint, gouache, ink, colored pencils, and digital brushes.  And most recently, I’ve been experimenting with ink and nib pens. There are so many techniques I enjoy trying and incorporating into my books, a big part of my process is trying to find styles/formats I feel best convey the concept at hand. 

I hope creators whose interests may sway from the mainstream feel reassured that independent publishing is a perfectly valid way to produce professional-level content while retaining your creative vision.

My book I Live for the Sun, for example, features a penguin protagonist who becomes depressed and eventually experiences suicidal ideation after his friend gets eaten by a leopard seal. Through independent publishing, I was able to attempt this difficult topic of suicidal ideation, scarcely found in traditionally published picture books, and share my story with a wider audience through stores and events. 

More Indies, More Voices

I really do feel there is room in the publishing industry for these lesser-represented subjects and “indie” leaning styles or approaches, which may be more commonly exhibited by neurodivergent creators. I’ve found success thus far in my career by leaning into myself, and I hope other creators share their distinct perspectives as well, because I think everyone’s unique approach and life experiences are what make for compelling, powerful, books.

About Chameleon in Training:

Chameleons must camouflage to survive…or must they? Why not have a disco party and snack on some tasty flies instead? Commander Jackson and student Edna duke it out in this fast-paced, witty attempt at Color 101: The Art of Camouflage. Class is in session!

“Chameleon in Training” is a picture book recommended for all ages. The story may especially delight neurodivergent readers through its celebration of nonconformity.

You can purchase Chameleon in Training on Amazon.

About I Live for the Sun:

When an Adélie penguin loses his best friend to a leopard seal attack, he becomes distraught and grows increasingly depressed. In the midst of peril, a humpback whale comes to the Adélie penguin’s aid and shows what keeps her going through the toughest of times.

Collage and mixed media painted illustrations depict the beauties of arctic nature in this tale of friendship and perseverance.

Recommended for ages 8 and up. “I Live for the Sun” may be a helpful resource for people struggling with grief and/or depression.

You can purchase I Live for the Sun on Amazon.

About the Author/Illustrator:

Parker Milgram is an author, illustrator, and fine artist based in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Their debut picture book and art book No Ideas Allowed! and Book of Worlds: An Artistic Representation of Mental Illness were published in 2021; their third and fourth books, I Live for the Sun and Chameleon in Training, were published by Post Meridiem Press in 2023 and 2024.

Parker’s art has been featured in publications such as The Worcester Review, Worcester Magazine, and CM PRIDE and exhibited at venues including ArtsWorcester, Worcester Center for Crafts, and the Mary Cosgrove Dolphin Gallery. Their current creative projects span themes of mental health, friendship, and neurodivergence.

You can view Parker’s art on Instagram @parkermilgram or see their published works at parkermilgram.com.

Sneak Peek at Daddy’s 12 Days of Christmas by Katie L. Carroll, illustrated by Phoebe Cho

Publishing is always looking ahead, so even though the leaves have barely begun to show their fall resplendence here, my bookish brain is focused on Christmas. In two weeks, my next Family Holiday Tales books DADDY’S 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS releases!

I’ve once again teamed up with Phoebe Cho, illustrator of MOMMY’S NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS, for another heartfelt and realistic take on a Christmas classic. As you can see from the cover, Phoebe does amazing character work, bringing such vibrancy to my words with her illustrations.

DADDY’S 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS is a play on the classic Christmas carol “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” Only this is a 12 days like you’ve never seen before!

You can pre-order it from from AmazonBarnes & NobleBookshop.org, or Kobo, and it officially releases on October 24. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the “gifts” Daddy receives from his children during the holiday season.

MOMMY’S NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS by Katie L. Carroll, illustrated by Phoebe Cho, Releases!

I’m so excited (and only a little bit exhausted) to celebrate another book release. Welcome to the world MOMMY’S NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS! This began as a spark of an idea in this tired mom’s brain one night shortly before Christmas. It lived for many years as an annual post on my blog until I finally decided to make it into an actual book.

The process of looking for an illustrator, landing with the amazing Phoebe Cho, and having the story illustrated was so rewarding. Phoebe’s style has just the right amount of nostalgia for a retelling of a classic but also the modern take I was searching for. And the way she brought the characters to life is truly magical!

I’m going live today at noon (ET) on Tiktok for a reading of the book. In the meantime, here’s a peek at a few of the pages.

I’ve mentioned how I believe adults should read picture books whether or not they have children to read them to (see my post “Picture Book Recommendations for Adults”), and MOMMY’S NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS is definitely a picture book that is as much for adults as it is for the kids.

Buy signed copies on the Purchase Books page, or find it at BookshopAmazonBarnes & NobleIndieBoundKobo, or Book Depository (for international folks), and more!

‘Twas the night before Christmas…

In this humorous take on the classic Christmas poem by Clement C. Moore, the concept of the serene night before Christmas is turned on its head. Instead of visions of sugar plums, the children are teething and playing loudly. There are presents to be wrapped and ornaments to be mended. Just when Mommy and Daddy take a moment to relax, a noise outside alerts them to a surprise visitor. But Mommy’s determined not to let anyone–not even Santa Claus himself–disturb the sleeping children on Christmas Eve.

Children and parents alike will be entertained and delighted by this new classic Christmas story! The perfect gift for all the moms who make Christmas so special.

MOMMY’S NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS Cover Reveal

There’s so much going on right now as I prepare for my two fall releases and work on revisions for my Hamlet-inspired YA psychological thriller that’s coming out next year! Plus, it’s summer, so that means adventures and vacations with the family.

Today, though, I’m focusing on my upcoming picture book MOMMY’S NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS. Consider this a reason to have a Christmas in July celebration because I’m revealing the gorgeous cover and one of my favorite spreads in the book. There is something so magical about seeing the words come to life through illustrations!

I was so happy to work with illustrator Phoebe Cho. Her vision for the characters and setting matched up with mine and more. She brought a really beautiful mix of classic Christmas nostalgia and a modern, realistic twist. So here it is!

Do you love it as much as I do?

Some of you long-time readers may remember my take on Clement C. Moore’s classic poem “A Visit From St. Nicholas” that I shared each year at Christmastime. This version is quite similar (I did make a few edits to the text), but the illustrations take it to a whole new level.

It definitely can be read to kids (I’ve read it to mine a bunch of times and it always makes them laugh), but it’s truly a picture book for parents. One of my favorite spreads really demonstrates the kind of humor I was going for and shows you Santa himself!

I hissed, “Get off my roof, your reindeer too.”
With a shake of my hands, waved off his crew.
He grinned. “Don’t end up on my naughty list.”
Clearly this guy wasn’t getting my gist.

Mommy’s night before christmas

I can’t wait for you to meet the rest of the family! The book comes out October 25 and is starting to pop up on retailers for pre-order. I’m working with a marketing firm and am looking for a few published picture book authors to read it early and provide blurbs. If that’s you and you’re interested in MOMMY’S NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS, let me know at katielcarroll @ yahoo.com.

About MOMMY’S NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS:

‘Twas the night before Christmas…

In this humorous take on the classic Christmas poem by Clement C. Moore, the concept of the serene night before Christmas is turned on its head. Instead of visions of sugar plums, the children are teething and playing loudly. There are presents to be wrapped and ornaments to be mended. Just when Mommy and Daddy take a moment to relax, a noise outside alerts them to a surprise visitor. But Mommy’s determined not to let anyone–not even Santa Claus himself–disturb the sleeping children on Christmas Eve.

Children and parents alike will be entertained and delighted by this new classic Christmas story! The perfect gift for all the moms who make Christmas so special.

 Pre-order now from Bookshop, Amazon (hardcover or ebook), Barnes & NobleIndieBound, or Book Depository (for international folks).

WITCH TEST Cover Reveal & ARCs

It’s here! The cover for my upcoming middle grade WITCH TEST is such a mood. I love Liza’s stance and the glowing moon reflecting off of everything. It’s got the corn maze and the crows, which are so important to Liza’s story. Big shout-out to MiblArt for creating the cover!

WITCH TEST will be out on September 13, 2022. I’m working on getting it up for pre-order on all the usual book retail sites and scheduling events for the fall. In the meantime, ARCs (advanced reader copies) will be going out in the next few weeks. If you’re interested in receiving an early copy to read and review, you can fill out the ARC form here.

WITCH TEST blurb:

Liza is sinking in a bubbling cauldron of middle school rumors.

When the entire eighth grade begins studying the Salem witch trials, it seems everyone is on a witch hunt…with Liza as target number one. Worst of all, her ex-best friend is the one who started a rumor that Liza bewitched a boy with a love potion.

As the bullying intensifies, Liza’s loneliness grows. More than ever, she wishes her mother were still alive. A glimmer of hope arrives when Liza finds her mother’s diary…until she actually reads it. Turns out Liza’s family connection to witches goes back for centuries. So much for the witch stuff being rumors!

If Liza can channel her inner witch at the Halloween night corn maze, she might find the strength to stand up for herself. If not, she risks losing a piece of herself to a growing depression and any hope of happiness.

WITCH TEST is an upper middle grade Mean Girls meets The Craft novel for pre-teens and young teens.

Doesn’t it look so pretty next to PIRATE ISLAND? I love how my two middle grade book babies complement each other.

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