The picture book is a unique art form – storytelling, informing – with characters and themes that often stay with the reader for years. The craft of working on picture books requires a wide range of skills, and this book shows illustrators and designers how to develop their abilities in this competitive industry.

Illustrator and educator Dr e. shares her knowledge of creating picture books to take illustrations and styles to the next level. From creative elements of making images, to practicalities of getting work out in the world, this book covers all readers need to know – whatever stage they're at. Extra exercises online help illustrators work through problems, and the book covers topics such as:

- A history of picture books
- Visual hierarchy
- Layout and design elements
- Character design
- World building
- Preparing for print
- …and more

Throughout the book are featured guests who talk through their areas of specialism and showcase some of the best work in the industry. From Coretta Scott King award-winning illustrator R. Gregory Christie discussing the push-pull of images within the 2-D environment, RISD professor M.J. Begin looking at character design through the use of shadow shapes to James Gurney of Dinotopia fame outlining the benefits of making maquettes, they all share their knowledge as inspiration for the next generation.