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"Behind the book"

A behind-the-scenes video detailing the process of writing and illustrating Home in the Woods.

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Eliza Wheeler is an illustrator and author of books for kids, teens, and the young at heart. Her book Miss Maple’s Seeds was a NYT bestseller, and her book Home in the Woods was dubbed “Gorgeous” by the New York Times book review. Eliza is based in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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For Picture Book Art Creation, Writing is the First Action

September 1, 2022

When I create art for a book that’s written by another author, I don’t jump into sketching and drawing right away. Even for stories I haven’t written, the process still begins, for me, with writing. When I’ve taken on a manuscript to illustrate, the first thing I do is print it out, get in a cozy and undistracted place, and read through the story as I would a finished picture book. In my first and freshest reading, I want to capture all notes that come to mind in a stream of consciousness. You can see in the above image on…

‘When I’m With You’ – Free Coloring Sheets

March 4, 2022

My newest book with Pat Zietlow Miller is WHEN I’M WITH YOU, and is a joy-filled friendship romp: Here are 2 great coloring sheets for kids or students to color. (Click on the download link arrows below these images for high quality PDF files to print) Underwater scene:

For Illustrators Who Want to Know About Children’s Book Publishing

December 17, 2021

I get frequently asked for information on children’s book illustration and publishing, and unfortunately I’m unable to respond to each individually, so I’ve compiled all the beginning info that I have to share with folks here, for anyone who’s looking for it! This information is based on my personal experience and it’s important to say that there’s no one right way to get into illustration or book publishing; each writer or illustrator’s journey is going to be totally unique. I’m hoping this info and the links to much MORE information below will help guide people who are starting out. *Note*…

Shepherd “Top 5” Book List

December 16, 2021

I was invited to contribute to this cool new website for authors, Shepherd.com, with a top 5 booklist called “Best Picture Books for Your Next Nature Escape”. Check it out!