Children's Book Coach & Illustrator
Your story. Your illustration art. Your way.
Honored by Top Industry Awards & Media
I'm Jo Ann — award-winning illustrator and book coach.
I've illustrated 15+ children's books, including two of my own — with awards from Mom's Choice, Foreword Indies, USA Today, and others. Over the years, I've coached dozens of authors and guided them through every step of the self-publishing process. I work with only a few authors at a time, The work is personal: a small caseload, real conversations, and a roadmap built around your book, not a template.
From Drafts to Celebrated Authors
The children's book authors I've guided are not just published; they are celebrated, with each title earning awards and fulfilling their publishing dreams.
I’ve sung well deserved praises to Jo Ann many times. She has guided me as a book coach and has supported my work with her talents as an illustrator. Children’s books come to life through illustrations. Jo Ann has breathed life into each of my books.
I recently experienced an outstanding service that truly exceeded my expectations. The attention to detail and commitment to excellence were evident in every interaction. From start to finish, I felt valued and well taken care of, making it a remarkable experience that I highly recommend!
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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.
Your Story — Beautifully Illustrated — Expertly Designed
You wrote the words — now let's make them sing. I'll help you illustrate, design, and self-publish your children's book with
Here's a sneak peek:
Illustration Options to Capture Your Unique Vision
Whether you want professional digital illustrations created for you, or you'd like me to teach you how to create your own artwork with AI, I'll guide you from concepts and ideas to a beautifully crafted, one-of-a-kind picture book.
The Self-Publishing Playbook
I'll share the tools and step-by-step process I've refined over more than a decade of creating and publishing children's books — so yours is built with clarity and confidence.
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Polish Until It's Print-Ready
Every page of your bookLearn to refine every illustration for print — fixing the small details (hands, faces, edges) that separate a good picture book from a great one.
Launch So Readers Can Find It
Practical strategies to get your picture book in front of parents, teachers, librarians, and gift-buyers — so launch day actually lands.
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.
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How We'll Work Together—A simple, customized process built around your story.
Together, we’ll make self-publishing simple and stress-free—customized for your story and vision. Here’s how it works:
Discovery Call
We'll clarify your goals and challenges so we can map out the best path forward.
Strategy Session
We'll turn the roadmap into action: refine your manuscript, choose the right tools for your style, and plan your publishing steps.
Creative Coaching
You'll learn to craft professional-quality illustrations and strengthen your storytelling with hands-on, page-by-page feedback.
Launch-Ready Book
You'll receive a polished, print-ready book that reflects your voice—ready to share with confidence.
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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
Here are some common questions 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?
I'm here to help you!
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.