Guiding first-time authors through every step of the picture book journey — with creativity, clarity, and care.
Guiding first-time authors through every step of the picture book journey — with creativity, clarity, and care.
Your Picture Book Process Simplified
From choosing the right illustrator to understanding how picture books are built, I help first-time authors get the guidance they need to nurture their story — and launch it into the world with confidence.
Not ready to book a call? Explore self-paced guides for picture book authors.
What I Do
Here's what we can do together:
Help you understand how the illustration process works
Review your story and offer honest, kind feedback
Advise you on what to include in an illustrator brief and contract
Refer you to trusted illustrators, editors, and designers if needed
Support you through revisions and feedback rounds
Offer “book forensics” for underperforming or self-published books
Give you clarity, confidence, and a clear next step — wherever you are
Meet Your Consultant
Kim Sponaugle is an award-winning children’s book illustrator and consultant with more than 20 years of experience in the publishing world.
She creates whimsical, emotionally expressive illustrations for authors and publishers while also guiding writers through the picture book process — from refining their vision to preparing professional, market-ready projects.
Let's Talk
Whether you’re just starting out or need fresh guidance on your children’s book project, I’m here to help.
Book a free 15-minute clarity call so we can discuss your goals, answer your questions, and see how I can best support you.
No pressure—just a friendly conversation to get you moving forward with confidence.
I look forward to hearing your story!
How It Works
Step 1:
Start with a Free Call
We’ll have a 15-minute chat to see where you are in your book journey and
whether I can help.
Step 2:
Choose the Support You Need
From a one-time consult to full project guidance, I’ll recommend a service that fits
your stage and goals.
Step 3:
Get Gentle, Expert Guidance
I’ll walk you through the illustration process — from hiring and contracts to giving
feedback and avoiding pitfalls.
Step 4:
Move Forward with Confidence
Whether you’re starting fresh or revisiting a published book, you’ll have clarity,
direction, and trusted referrals if needed.
Happy Authors Say,
Let's have a conversation...
Introducing Resource Guides
For writers who prefer to go at their own pace, these guides walk you through key steps of the picture book process — from concept to polish.
☑ Beginner-friendly
☑ Expert insights from 20+ years in publishing
☑ Instant digital download
Find the Right Illustrator
Beginner’s Guide First-Time Authors
Finding an illustrator can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. This friendly, easy-to-follow guide helps you understand what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to choose an illustrator who brings your story to life with heart. Perfect for new authors who want a trusted creative partner by their side.
Understanding the Picture Book Process
Beginner’s Guide First-Time Authors
Great books are built on great collaboration. This guide helps first-time authors give honest, constructive feedback—sharing what’s working, what’s not, and where they’re unsure—in a way that supports the illustrator’s work and strengthens your creative partnership.
Create Clear Picture Book Revisions
Beginner’s Guide First-Time Authors
Not sure what happens after you finish writing your story? This guide walks you through the key stages of turning your manuscript into a finished picture book—from working with an illustrator to preparing for print—so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
Ready to chat?
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