Children Books
I feel like everyone, at one point, has imagined what it would be like to write a book. I guess I’m one of the lucky ones where an opportunity to do just that fell into my hands and who am I to say no to crazy, childhood dreams. Storytelling has always been a part of who I am, from scribbling down ideas as a kid to creating body art that pushes boundaries
As part of my university’s Short Story module, we were challenged to create a unique product that told a compelling story in an innovative way. The task wasn’t just about writing, it was about thinking outside the box, grounding our work in research and considering its potential commercial value. It was an opportunity to explore new methods of storytelling, push creative boundaries and develop something truly special.
01
About the Book
This heartwarming tale follows Gilbert, a little mouse and his journey to find belonging. From the warmth of his cozy box to the harsh realities of being left behind, Gilbert experiences moments of loneliness and longing. However, a chance encounter with Cora, a kind-hearted girl, changes everything. Gilbert finds himself embraced in a new home filled with love and acceptance. As Christmas approaches, Cora surprises Gilbert with a special gift, a prosthetic leg. Together, Gilbert and Cora dance into the night, celebrating the joy of friendship and the magic of the holiday season.
02
Research
I immersed myself in the world of children's literature, determined to understand what makes a story truly engaging for young readers. My research took me to Leeds Central Library, where I had numerous meetings with the team to gain insight into the books that children naturally gravitate toward. They shared their expertise on the types of stories selected for reading sessions and the factors that influence those choices. We discussed everything from the importance of vibrant illustrations to the rhythm and flow of text that keeps children engaged.
Beyond the library, I also consulted with a primary school teacher to gain a classroom perspective. I wanted to understand how children interact with stories in an educational setting—what excites them, what themes resonate and how books can serve as tools for learning and emotional development.
Additionally, I conducted my own independent research, analysing popular children's books and identifying key storytelling techniques that captivate young audiences. I examined how text and illustrations work together to create an immersive experience, how pacing and repetition enhance engagement and what design elements contribute to an appealing and accessible reading experience.
I also explored the decision-making process behind book selection from a parent's perspective. What makes a parent pick up a book from a shelf? Is it the theme, the artwork, the message it conveys, or the educational value? Understanding these factors allowed me to refine my book in a way that would not only capture children's attention but also meet the expectations of the adults guiding their reading choices. My goal was to ensure that my story ticked every box—delivering a visually appealing, emotionally impactful and widely accessible experience for young readers and their families.
03
The Visuals
I poured my heart into the illustrations, using a Wacom drawing tablet to bring Gilbert and his world to life. Every detail was carefully crafted, from the expressive faces of the characters to the cozy, festive backgrounds that capture the warmth of the holiday season. I wanted each page to feel immersive, drawing young readers into Gilbert’s journey through a blend of soft textures, rich colours and charming hand-drawn elements.
Beyond the illustrations, I carefully considered the book’s overall design, making intentional choices to enhance the storytelling experience. I selected the font and formatted each page to ensure the text was clear, engaging and easy for young readers to follow. Understanding the power of visual storytelling, I incorporated colour association as a subtle but meaningful element. Each character was assigned a signature colour—Cora’s world is bathed in warm orange tones, while Gilbert’s is soft pink. As their friendship blossoms, their colours begin to merge, symbolising their connection and the sense of belonging Gilbert has long searched for.
Every artistic choice was made with purpose, reinforcing the themes of friendship, acceptance and joy. Seeing it all come together was an incredibly rewarding experience and I’m beyond proud of the final result. I’m thrilled to share that my dedication and creativity were recognized with an 80% grade—an outstanding first—for this project. The effort was absolutely worth it and I can’t wait to take the next steps in sharing Gilbert’s story with the world.
03
The Dedication
I wanted this book to be more than just a story—it was also a way to honor the people who have always supported and believed in me. I dedicated Gilbert to my amazing grandparents, whose love and encouragement have been a constant source of strength. To make it even more special, I illustrated them in the book, capturing their warmth in the very pages they inspired.
