Kevin Collier – Illustrating and Designing Children’s Books

On October 16th, 2008 Tyler Tichelaar and Victor R. Volkman spoke with award-winning children’s book illustrator and author Kevin Colllier. He educated us on key areas of unique factors in designing and illustrating children’s books, including: how do authors and illustrators find eachother, avoiding a creative tug-of-war with your artist, the importance of chemistry between author and illustrator, project management pitfalls, and how to choose the right number of illustrations for your book.
Kevin Collier is the author and/or illustrator of about 100 books to date (some pending publication). A book he illustrated won the New York Book Festival. Another was reviewed favorably by the New York Times, which only reviews a handful of the tens of thousands of books they receive. As a favor for a minister’s wife, Kevin did some quick illustrations for a poem called Topsy Turvy Land. He never imagined that that she would send those sketchy drawings, done in three days, to a publisher. That book was voted one of the top 50 children’s books of all time by World Magazine in 2006. He is also a critically acclaimed author. His first chapter book, barthpenn at heaven.org, was called “a masterpiece of communication,” and received the Craig’s Choice Award for children’s fiction. His second chapter book, Esther’s
Channel
, received 5 stars on Amazon.com. Literary professionals have said that Kevin is the “next C.S. Lewis,” and that his “writing will set the standard for children’s literature for generations to come.”
Kevin also stars in an upcoming show called “Drawing for KICKS,” which will be broadcast nationally, and possibly internationally, on Christian television stations. An offshoot of internationally broadcast show “KICKS Club,” “Drawing for KICKS” features Kevin, his son, Jarod, and some of Jarod’s classmates. Part reality show, part art class, and all fun, “Drawing for KICKS” is shot primarily in Grand Haven, MI.

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2 Responses to Kevin Collier – Illustrating and Designing Children’s Books

  1. Safari says:

    Kevin is an incredible illustrator and writer. I’m honored that he illustrated my book, Maybe We Are Flamingos, by Guardian Angel Publishing. He brought the story to life with such heart and humor. Kevin admitted it was the most PINK he’s ever drawn. I hope we work together again in the future. He’s a class act.

    Best,
    Safari

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