What Authors Are Saying

“Working with Kim changed the way I write.”
— Pam Halter, Children’s Book Editor & Author

“She truly listened and brought our special-needs chicken character to life with heart.”
— *Tricia Stone-Shumaker, Author of Poppy’s Adventures)

“Kim consistently brings stories to life with warmth, creativity, and a deep understanding of what each author envisions. The authors she refers absolutely love working with her. Her illustrations are beautiful, emotionally resonant, and her communication is always thoughtful and professional. She’s the kind of collaborator who makes every project better.”

— Rosemarie Gillen, Book Assembler & Publishing Partner

“Kim is a mentor. Nine years after publishing my first book, we’re still in touch.”
— *Audrey Moore, Author of Ping and Po-Li)

“She’s a pro—smart, creative, and a great communicator.”
— Sally Apokedak, Publisher & Editor

“Every author Kim refers absolutely loves working with her. Her illustrations are not only beautiful but emotionally resonant.”
— Rosemarie Gillen, Publishing Partner

Why Guidance Matters for First-Time Authors

“Many first-time authors don’t realize the timeframe or cost involved in illustration. Once they understand the time it takes and the full process, everything runs smoother.”
— Jack Foster, Children’s Book Illustrator

“Kim helped me understand the importance of hiring an editor early on. Without that step, I wouldn’t have gotten the story right.”
— *Audrey Moore, Author of Ping and Po-Li)

“If new authors invest upfront in professional guidance, it saves time and costly mistakes. Good text, page breaks, illustration, and design all matter—and they need a marketing hook too.”
— Sally Apokedak, Publisher, Editor, and Former Literary Agent

“Working with Kim changed the way I write. I now understand how to inspire illustrators, which helps with both traditional and self-publishing success.”
— Pam Halter, Children’s Book Editor & Author

“Kim’s consulting helped shape the vision of every page. Her creative insight enhanced the narrative and brought the characters to life.”
— Jennifer Reed, Author

What Makes Collaboration Work

“Expectations and communication are everything. Being clear about process, revisions, and deadlines sets the project up for success.”
— Jack Foster

“Kim truly listened, provided thoughtful guidance, and understood my vision for a special-needs chicken character. Her timeless illustrations brought Poppy to life.”
— *Tricia Stone-Shumaker, Author of Poppy’s Adventures)

“Kim was more than an illustrator—she was a mentor. Nine years later, we’re still in touch, which shows her sincerity and investment.”
— Audrey Moore

“Kim is easy to talk to and brainstorm with. She includes what an author wants, but adds imaginative layers children love—like a visual treasure hunt.”
— Pam Halter

“Kim understood my vision and then surpassed it. She created vibrant, timeless pages that elevated the story. Her professionalism made the process easy.”
— *JD Rempel, Author of Marigold and the Snoring King)

“Kim’s professionalism combined with genuine enthusiasm made the entire collaboration enjoyable and successful. She offered solutions with grace and creativity.”
— Jennifer Reed

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Kim’s Role as Consultant & Illustrator

“Kim’s combination of creativity, experience, and clarity helped bring my story to life. She was receptive, professional, and a joy to work with on all three books.”
— Tricia Stone-Shumaker

“Kim is a pro—smart, a great communicator, and full of ideas. She knows what she’s doing and listens well.”
— Sally Apokedak

“At Montrose Christian Writers Conference, Kim’s workshops received top marks. Authors especially valued her one-on-one insights about illustration for books.”
— Marsha Hubler, Conference Director

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

“Authors often revise text mid-process. Even small changes affect composition, spacing, and page breaks—it can derail the illustrator’s work.”

— Jack Foster

“Most writers don’t understand the difference between an illustrated book and a true picture book. If the text and illustrations don’t work in harmony, it’s not a picture book.”

— Jean Matthew Hall, Chief Editor, StarLight Magazine

“Many authors try to do it alone and end up with books that aren’t industry standard. A professional can help them see what they’re blind to in their own work.”

— Sally Apokedak

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Who they are...

THE AUTHORS

JD Rempel

Author of the NorCal Girls series, JD weaves faith, friendship, and real-life challenges into meaningful Christian middle grade fiction.

Audrey Moore

Award-recognized author of the Ping and Po Li series, Audrey brings the beauty and adventure of the rainforest to life through engaging children’s stories.

Jack Foster

Winner of the 2024 Red-Letter Award, Jack is a prolific illustrator who has brought over 150 children’s books to life with his colorful, whimsical style.

Tricia Stone-Shumaker

Speech-language pathologist and author of the celebrated Perfectly Poppy series, Tricia draws inspiration from her beak-tweaked pet chicken to craft stories that spark empathy and kindness.

Jean Matthew Hall

Editor-in-chief of StarLight Magazine, writing coach, and conference speaker, Jean is passionate about mentoring writers and inspiring readers of all ages.

Jennifer Reed

Creator of the first online magazine for young readers, Jennifer has authored several children’s books and taught Writing for Children with the Institute of Children's Literature.

Marsha Hubler

Author of Keystone Kids and the Tommi Pockets series, Marsha directs the Montrose Christian Writers Conference and encourages writers nationwide.

THE CONSULTANTS

Rosemarie Gillen

Award-winning illustrator, book designer, and abstract impressionist artist, Rosemarie is known for her expertise in pagination, self-publishing, and collaboration.

Sally Apokedak

Publisher, literary agent, and editor with 25+ years in children’s and Christian books, Sally has represented award-winning authors.

Pam Halter

Award-winning children’s author and fantasy novelist, Pam is also a trusted editor who helps writers bring stories to life with heart and imagination.

Brit Upcavage

Website designer and branding energetics consultant, Brit helps creatives build aligned online spaces that reflect their voice, connect with their audience, and convert with ease.

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