Being an independent author gives us the freedom to do as we please. Of course the ultimate goal is to gain readers, reviews, and respect among our peers (and make money).
However it is also allowing me to showcase the artwork of an extremely talented local youth. Had my new book gone to a publisher, this would not be accepted. It also happened by chance.
How did it all come about?
My draft for Unfamiliar Territory, a kids chapter book, was handed off to a co-worker’s niece just for fun. He’s bragged about her drawings in the past. After she received the book he asked if she could make some art for the book. I said yes, that would be great. It’s a good feeling to know that my words inspired her imagination. And then he showed me images of what she was creating and I was blown away. This girl’s talent is stunning.
I don’t want to give away all the pictures in the book, so here is one teaser.

And all this makes holding the paperback even more enjoyable. Check out, Unfamiliar Territory on Amazon today.
About the artist: Victoria is 14, she enjoys art and anything to do with literature. She likes coffee way too much to be healthy and is a night owl who hates mornings. She’s passionate about music, it’s her main source of inspiration and would rather live in a fictional world where she can own a sword.
Be open to looking for youth to support and inspire and be proud to be indie.
So awesome that you are encouraging and supporting creativity in young kids in this way. She is a talented girl. I love how you came together serendipitously! Collabs between artists from different mediums is as good as it gets.
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Absolutely! 🙂
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