Turn your story into a beautiful, publish-ready children’s book
Professional children's book illustration, design and publishing support - from your first manuscript to the finished book.
I'm Nathan, a UK children's book illustrator and designer with over 25 years' experience. Whether you're writing your first story or you're ready to commission illustrations, I can help bring your book to life.
Your story, brought to life
Creating a children's book is an exciting journey, but knowing where to begin isn't always easy.
I'm here to make the process clearer and more manageable, helping you develop your ideas into a beautifully illustrated, professionally designed book.
As both an illustrator and designer, I can help with everything from planning how your story works across the pages to creating memorable characters, illustrations, covers and finished book layouts.
You'll work directly with me throughout the project, with honest advice, creative ideas and a practical approach tailored to your story.
Whether you need help with one stage or the entire book, we'll work out the best way forward together.
Manuscript Refinement & Book Planning
Get your story ready for illustration with helpful manuscript refinements and a clear page-by-page Book Map. My combined planning package is £370, giving you a practical starting point before committing to a complete book.
How I can help bring your children's book to life
Whether you're at the beginning of your journey or ready to bring your characters to life, I offer professional services to help you create your children's book.
Children's Book Illustration
From memorable characters and small spot illustrations to full-page scenes and detailed double-page spreads, I'll create original artwork that brings your story to life.
Book Cover Design & Layout
Bring everything together with an eye-catching cover, carefully considered typography and professionally designed pages that work beautifully with your illustrations.
Publishing & Print Preparation
I'll help prepare your finished book for publication, including print-ready files for Amazon KDP, other self-publishing platforms or professional printers.
From your story to a finished children's book
Creating a children's book doesn't have to feel complicated. I'll guide you through the process, one step at a time.
1. Share Your Story
Start with a free manuscript review or get in touch to discuss your project. I'll help you understand what your book needs next.
2. Plan Your Book
We'll establish how your story works across the pages, refining the manuscript where needed and deciding on the most suitable illustrations.
3. Bring It to Life
I'll develop your characters and create the illustrations, working with you to bring your story and ideas to life.
4. Prepare for Publication
Finally, I'll bring everything together with professional book design, layout and print-ready files for your chosen publishing route.
Already completed some of these stages? That's absolutely fine. We can focus on the help you actually need.
How much does it cost to create a children's book?
Every children's book is different, so the cost depends on the amount and type of work involved.
Manuscript Refinement & Book Map
£370
A practical first step to refine your story and plan how it will work across the pages, including the most suitable types of illustrations.
Complete Children's Book Illustration & Design
Typically £4.5k-£6k+
For a professionally illustrated 32-page picture book, including artwork, book design and preparation for publication.
The final cost depends largely on the number and combination of spot illustrations, full-page illustrations and double-page spreads, as well as the detail involved.
I'll help you establish an illustration plan that suits your story and budget, so you know what's involved before committing to the full project.
Children's books I've helped bring to life
Every children's book has its own characters, personality and story to tell.
Here are a few examples of books I've worked on, from character development and illustration through to cover design and finished page layouts.
Take a look at my work and imagine what we could create for your story.
What authors say about working with me
Bringing a children's book to life is a collaborative process. Here's what some of the authors I've worked with have said about their experience.
"Nathan guided me through every stage of the process, from a rough manuscript to a fully published book. As a first-time author, having someone who could explain the illustration, layout and publishing journey in plain English was invaluable. I genuinely couldn't have done it without him."
Lyndon - Four Small Boys From Wales
"The illustrations are better than I could have hoped for, capturing the characters and story perfectly. What really helps is the additional support and advice around publishing and marketing, helping me avoid mistakes and giving me the confidence to really move forward with my book."
L. Jeremiah - Gallant St George & The Dragon of Wales
Thinking about writing your first children's book?
Download my free Children's Book Starter Pack
If you've got an idea for a children's story but aren't sure where to begin, my free Starter Pack will help you understand the process.
It's designed for first-time authors who want practical guidance on developing their story, planning their book and understanding what comes next.
You'll also receive occasional helpful advice by email to guide you through the process.
Frequently asked questions
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The cost of illustrating and designing a children's book depends on the number and type of illustrations required.
As a general guide, a professionally illustrated 32-page picture book typically costs £4,500–£6,000 or more, including illustration, book design and preparation for publication.
The final price depends on the combination of spot illustrations, full-page illustrations and double-page spreads, along with the complexity of the artwork.
I provide individual quotations based on your story and requirements, so you'll know what's included before committing.
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Yes. I offer a free initial manuscript review to help you understand how your story is developing and what steps might be useful next.
For more detailed help, my Manuscript Refinement service (£150) focuses on improving the wording, flow, pacing and readability while keeping your own writing style.
You can also combine this with a Children's Book Map for £370, giving you a clear plan for how your story will work across the pages.
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The easiest way to begin is with a free manuscript review. I'll take an initial look at your story, offer constructive feedback and suggest suitable next steps.
If your manuscript is already ready for illustration, you're welcome to contact me directly to discuss your project and request a quotation.
There's no obligation to commission further work.
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Yes. I can help prepare your book for self-publishing through Amazon KDP or another suitable printing and publishing service.
This can include professional page layout, cover design and preparing print-ready files to the required specifications.
I can also explain the options available so you can decide which publishing route best suits your book. Printing, distribution and marketing costs are separate.
Ready to bring your children's book to life?
Whether you've finished writing your story or you're ready to commission professional illustrations, I'd love to hear about your project.
Start with a free manuscript review to get some initial feedback and guidance, or contact me directly if you're ready to discuss illustration and book design.