Mentoring for Children’s Book Authors and Illustrators

Hi, are you an aspiring Author or Illustrator looking to dive into the children’s book industry but you don’t know where to start?
Do you want to get your illustration portfolio ready to submit to agents?
Are you looking for a professional illustrator to review your picture book dummy?
Do you need help bringing your characters to life and finding your voice in the industry?
Do you need a big virtual hug as you navigate the kidlit world?

You're in the right place!

I'm Marissa Valdez and I’d love to help you make your book dreams come true. I have illustrated two #1 New York Times bestsellers, numerous award-winning picture books, and I’ve worked with top publishers as an author and illustrator. When I began in the industry I didn’t know where to turn; it was a confusing process.

I want to use my years of experience to take the guesswork out of children’s publishing for you.

Our sessions will be tailored to your individual goals and experience level. My mentoring is suitable for authors, illustrators, and author/illustrators just getting started and established artists looking to refine their skillset. You let me know what you would like to learn and I’ll give you the inside scoop on the kidlit world!

Like a good illustration, a relationship takes time to develop. I would love to take the opportunity to get to know you and your practice, so I can take a holistic approach to our sessions. Over time we will be able to discuss your artistic process and develop your unique voice in the children’s publishing world.

My services:

Featured

Portfolio Review

£65.00

A single one-on-one session - 30 minute Zoom call

Professional feedback from an award-winning illustrator.
Critique of your portfolio layout and style continuity.
Create a game plan for your next move in the industry.
Find out what art directors and agents are looking for.

After payment is confirmed you will receive an email to book your time slot and a short form to fill out before your portfolio review. After we meet you will receive a link to download a full video of your portfolio review, it's yours to keep.

Creative Practice Mentoring

£120.00

A single one-on-one session - 1 hour Zoom call

Discover your kidlit goals.
Go over the ins-and-outs of the children’s publishing industry.
Help you choose your target market in the kidlit world.
Refine your children’s illustration style.
Create an actionable plan to help you elevate your children’s writing and illustration practice.

After payment is confirmed you will receive an email to book your time slot and a short form to fill out before your mentoring session. After we meet you will receive a link to download a full video of your mentoring, it's yours to keep.

Complete Creative Practice Mentorship

£345.00

Three one-on-one sessions - 1 hour each via Zoom

Your mentoring, your schedule! We will find the pace that works best for you.
Deepen your understanding of the children’s publishing industry.
Bespoke plan to improve your writing and/or illustration every session.
Learn how to edit your creative work to a professional standard.
Answer all your questions about portfolio submission.
Refine your portfolio to get ready to approach agents/editors.
Watch your style and confidence evolve over the course of our sessions.
Professional industry support for as long as you need it.

After payment is confirmed you will receive an email to book your first time slot and a short form to fill out before your initial mentoring session. After every meeting you will receive a link to download a full video of your mentoring, it's yours to keep.