Children's Book Coach &
Illustrator | Story Quest
From Idea to Award-Winning Author.
USA Today Featured
Purple Dragonfly Award
Indies Finalist
Mom's Choice Awards
Award-Winning Children's Books Start Here
These authors trusted Story Quest to illustrate and publish their stories. Yours could be next.
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Feeling Lost in the Picture-Book Publishing Maze?
You have a story worth telling. But between AI tools, illustration costs, formatting requirements, and publishing platforms — it can feel impossible to know where to start.
Tech That Makes Your Head Spin
Watched 20 "how-to" videos and still don't know which digital art tool to use — or how to make your characters look consistent?
Illustration Costs Out of Reach
Traditional illustration quotes running $10K–$30K? There's a better path — professional results without the agency price tag.
No Roadmap, No Confidence
You don't know what you don't know. Every step forward reveals three more questions — and no one to ask.
This Doesn't Have To Be Hard
I've guided hundreds of authors through exactly this. My approach combines master-level illustration skills with step-by-step coaching — so you always know your next move, and your book always looks stunning.
One expert, start to finish — no juggling freelancers or agencies
Your story, your vision — I never impose a style or template
Award-winning results — books that get noticed, reviewed, and celebrated
No tech background needed — I meet you exactly where you are
Your Story — Beautifully Illustrated
I personally guide every author through the proven methods I've developed over years of award-winning work. One author. One coach. Complete creative support.
Digital Illustration Mastery
Work directly with an acclaimed digital artist with deep expertise in Photoshop-based illustration and AI image-generation. Your characters, your world — rendered with professional precision.
AI Illustration — My Way
I study AI continuously and evaluate it against traditional storytelling art standards. When we use AI, we use it thoughtfully, responsibly, and in service of your vision — not instead of it.
Self-Publishing Secrets
Insider tips, tools, and connections so your book meets the highest quality standards — without breaking the bank. I've navigated every major publishing platform so you don't have to.
Marketing & Visibility Boost
Practical strategies to make your book stand out. It doesn't just launch — it gets noticed by reviewers, award committees, and the readers who'll love it most.
"Children's books come to life through illustrations. Jo Ann has breathed life into each of my books."
— Joan Ruddiman, EdD · Author of 5 Award-Winning Children's Books
One-on-one creative partnership
You work directly with me — the founder, illustrator, and coach behind every book. I have deep experience in children's book storytelling, self-publishing, digital art, Photoshop-based illustration, and AI-assisted image generation. I keep my client list intentionally small so every author gets my full attention.
"This is a collaborative, one-on-one creative process designed to help you bring your story to life with clarity, confidence, and professional-quality results."
Children's book coaching — expert support at every stage
Publishing a book takes a plan, a process, and someone who genuinely believes in your story. I work one-on-one with every author, at your pace.
Full Service Publishing Coaching
Custom Illustration Services
100
Authors Guided
15+
Award Winning Titles
1-on-1
Every Meeting
Stunning Illustrations
Explore the range of styles and creative possibilities for your children's book — from classic digital art to AI-assisted imagery.
Custom Digital Art
Every illustration is custom created by me, personally, using traditional digital art techniques, such as Adobe Photoshop, digital painting tools, and more. You, the storyteller, are my guide, ensuring that each illustration reflects your characters, your story, and your vision.
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Hybrid Approach
The best of both worlds. This approach blends traditional digital art techniques with AI-generated imagery. Together, we'll craft illustrations that transform your unique story into a one-of-a-kind visual masterpiece — including custom characters designed from scratch, one of the most distinctive features of high-quality digital art.
Guided AI Creation
Yes, you can create your own illustrations with AI! I'll teach you all the basics and guide you through the steps of AI image-generation — from your imagination to stunning, refined artwork for your book.
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Ready to write — and publish — the book you were born to create?
Your free discovery call is 30 minutes. No pressure, no pitch — just a clear, personalized roadmap for your book. Let's see what's possible together.
Flexible packages — meet you where you are
Whether you're exploring your idea or ready to publish, there's a package designed for your needs and budget. All live sessions are one-on-one via Zoom. Ongoing support is available for help and questions, as needed.
Refine Your Story
Create Your Own Illustrations
Coaching + Custom Illustrations
Personalized Children's Book Coaching—Expert Support & Guidance
Publishing a children's book takes a plan, a process, and someone who genuinely believes in your story. I work one-on-one with children's book authors at every stage, from first draft to finished, published book—on your timeline, at your pace. Whether you're a first-time author or an experienced writer ready to self-publish, you'll have a dedicated expert in your corner every step of the way.
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How I Actually Illustrate:
A Hybrid Approach
For ten-plus years I illustrated children's books in Photoshop, layer by careful layer. When AI image-generation arrived, I didn't abandon what I knew — I added it to my toolkit. Today I use AI to explore ideas for story images and to generate first drafts quickly; then, if needed, I bring an illustration into Photoshop for the detailed, precision work that elevates and renders the art memorable and timeless.
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Bring Your Children's Book to Life—Without the Overwhelm
I’ll help you transform big ideas into stunning work, whether in writing or visuals. From illustrations to layout, we’ll simplify the process for confident self-publishing of your children's book.
Why Work With Me?
I've helped dozens of children's book authors successfully self-publish — many earning national acclaim. We work collaboratively, with every step tailored to each author's unique story and artistic vision. Through live, one-on-one sessions, we'll shape and continuously refine story drafts and artwork. This is the heart of the book coaching experience and what makes this process truly creative and different.
Book your free coaching call with me today for a personalized roadmap and actionable next steps!
Accolade-Winning Artwork for Children's Books. Memorable Narratives.
Every cover tells a story. I help authors turn moments into eye-catching visuals that capture attention and win hearts. Here's what that looks like.
The smart way to self-publish — fast, beautiful & affordable
Together, we make self-publishing simple and stress-free — customized for your story and vision.
Discovery Call
We clarify your goals and map out the best path for your specific book.
✓ A focused 30-min call — bring your idea, even a rough one. No prep needed.
Strategy Session
We turn your roadmap into action: draft, illustration tools selected, steps planned.
✓ You'll leave with a personalized publishing roadmap and clear next steps tailored to your timeline.
Creative Coaching
Hands-on sessions where illustrations take shape and your story comes alive.
✓ Real feedback, real progress — you'll see your book come to life.
Print-Ready
A polished, print-ready book that reflects your voice — finished, celebrated, and ready for the world
.✓ l'll hand your book files over to a trusted print partner, Veronica at Journey BoundBooks. She'll handle the printing and get your book listed on Amazon — so you can focus on the launch.
From drafts to celebrated authors
The authors I've guided aren't just published — they're celebrated, with titles earning awards and fulfilling their publishing dreams.
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"I've reviewed many children's books and this one is fabulous!"
Jack Canfield, co-creator of Chicken Soup for the Soul, said some great things about my book Sunbelievable. Those words really changed my life. Now, I want to help you feel that same pride. Let’s turn your story into a book that readers will enjoy.
Learn Visual Storytelling
A few short prompts can open a window into your story's world. Watch how a single description becomes the starting point for a scene — then see where the craft work picks up from there.
Get Your Personalized Publishing Roadmap
Get a custom plan to take your children's book from draft to beautifully published, faster. Get your roadmap today.
FAQs
Everything you need to know about self-publishing and AI illustration coaching.
Absolutely. Whether you're starting your manuscript or are midway through, I provide coaching that supports new writers with guidance on structure and publishing.
Master AI to create stunning visuals for your book, regardless of your skill level. I discuss prompt strategies, visual refinement, and matching imagery to your story—no tech hassle required.
Yes — my primary focus is self-publishing children's book authors. I do occasionally work with illustrators and other creatives on the visual side, but the heart of what I do is coaching authors through picture book publishing.
Not at all. I specialize in beginners, providing hands-on training that simplifies the process and quickly builds your confidence—no design background needed.
All images we create together are yours — free to use in your book and marketing. AI copyright law is still evolving, so I'll walk you through the current rules — including disclosure requirements on Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, and other platforms — so you publish with confidence.
I provide flexible pricing to meet your needs, with packages from basic coaching to full-service publishing and custom artwork. Get in touch today for details or book a consultation for a tailored quote.
Still have questions?
Bring anything to your free coaching call–I'm here to help.
Ready For Your Free Coaching Call? Or, just have a few questions? Let’s Talk
Don't be shy! Send a me a message. Just fill out your name, email, and write me your questions. I'll get back to you within 24 hours.