When The Unexpected Happens: The Search For a New Illustrator

An update on where Book # 2 stand.

Writing a children's book is a journey full of heart. But like any journey, sometimes the road takes a turn you didn't plan for. I'm deep in the process of creating my second book (continuation of my 1st book), and I am so excited about where it's going. The story, the message, the love behind it — it's all there. But right now, I'm facing something I wasn't prepared for: I've lost contact with my illustrator.

FIRST, TO HER

Before anything else, I want to say, I genuinely hope she's okay. Life happens. Things come up that are bigger than any deadline or any book. If she ever sees this, I want her to know there are no hard feelings, only care and concern. People matter far more than projects.

I don't know what's going on in her world right now, and I hold space for the possibility that it has nothing to do with the work and everything to do with life.

NOW, THE REALITY

After waiting, reaching out, and hoping for a response, I've had to make a hard decision: I need to find a new illustrator to bring Book 2 to life. And honestly? It's a little daunting. Finding the right artistic partner for a children's book isn't just about skill, it's about finding someone who feels the story the way you do.

I found that once. I know it's possible to find it again. But right now I'm navigating the uncertainty of starting that search over, keeping the momentum going, and not letting this setback become a full stop.

WHAT I'M LEARNING

The creative road is rarely straight. It detours. It pauses. It asks you to trust the process even when the process feels messy. And I'm choosing to trust it.