Children's Book Illustrator & Coach | Story Quest

Personal, one-on-one coaching from an award-winning children's book illustrator — turning your manuscript into a polished, beautifully illustrated picture book in your voice."

Woman with curly red hair and glasses stands holding papers against a wall covered in texts and images.

The Coaching I Wish I'd Had

Ever wish someone could walk you through self-publishing a children's book — without draining your savings or sending you down a hundred YouTube rabbit holes? That's exactly what I do. I give first-time authors the clear, supportive coaching I wish I'd had on my first book.

Make Stunning Illustrations Without the Stress

Work one-on-one with me to bring your manuscript to life as a vivid, illustrated picture book.

Learn Skills You’ll Use Forever

I'll teach you the tools and craft moves you'll use on every book you write — not just this one.

Publish With Confidence and Ease

I’ll help you map out the entire process so you know exactly what to do—and avoid costly mistakes.

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.

"I've sung well-deserved praises to Jo Ann many times. She has guided me as a book coach and 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."
Joan Ruddiman, EdD
Author of 5 Award-Winning Children's Books: Welcome, Mac, to the Family!
"Jo Ann made what felt like an overwhelming process feel completely manageable. She brought not just skill but genuine care to every session. My book wouldn't exist without her guidance."
Daniel Kairys, MD, Author
I Want Cake — Nominated "Best Children's Book" by Foreword Reviews
"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 — a remarkable experience I highly recommend."
Andrina Cleveland, PhD
Author: It's Not My Fault
"Working with Jo Ann was the best decision I made for my book. She understood my vision immediately and brought it to life in ways I hadn't even imagined. The illustrations are stunning — readers always comment on them first."
Joan Ruddiman, EdD
Little Children, BIG Feelings

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

Turn the roadmap into action: refine your manuscript, choose the right tools for your style, and plan your publishing steps.

✓ 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.

Launch-Ready

A polished, print-ready book that reflects your voice.

✓ You'll receive print files, digital files, and a launch plan —Your book, finished and celebrated.

FAQs

Everything you need to know about self-publishing and AI illustration coaching.

Is this right for first-time authors?

Absolutely. Whether you're starting your manuscript or are midway through, I provide coaching that supports new writers with guidance on structure and publishing.

Will AI replace children's book illustrators?

No — and that's exactly why I use it the way I do. AI can speed up early exploration, but the judgment, story sense, and hands-on refinement that make a picture book actually work still comes from years of craft. I spent a decade illustrating in Photoshop before AI tools existed, and that background is what makes the hybrid approach work — not the AI alone.

What can I expect from AI illustration coaching?

You'll learn a hybrid workflow — using AI to explore ideas quickly, then refining every illustration by hand for the precision and quality a picture book deserves. No prior experience needed, and your creative control stays front and center throughout.

Is your coaching just for authors?

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.

Do I need to know how to use AI tools beforehand?

Not at all. I specialize in beginners, providing hands-on training that simplifies the process and quickly builds your confidence—no design background needed.

Who owns the artwork created with AI?

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.

How much does coaching and illustration cost?

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.

Children's Book Illustration & 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.

Most Popular

Full-service publishing coaching

From manuscript to finished book, I guide you through illustration, book formatting, and launch.
Includes:
Manuscript & story consulting
Self-publishing platform guidance
Custom digital illustration
Launch & marketing recommendations and referrals
Book formatting & layout
Illustration Only

Custom illustration services

Already have your manuscript? I'll bring it to life with professional, award-quality digital illustration that captures your story's heart.
Includes:
Character design & consistency
Scene & cover illustration
AI-assisted or traditional digital
Print-ready files included
Revision rounds included

100s

Authors Guided

15+

Award Winning Titles

1-on-1

Every Meeting

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.

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.

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