Children’s Book Illustration
& Self-Publishing Support for Independent Authors

Beautiful Books Begin Here

Custom illustration and full-service support to help you publish your children’s book with confidence.

We help independent authors self-publish with confidence—offering thoughtful book design, custom children’s book illustrations, and creative support every step of the way.

Handcrafted offerings to
support your publishing journey

Choose from three thoughtfully crafted tiers to guide you through the self-publishing journey — from your very first idea to beautifully formatted, print-ready files.

The Sprouting Acorn

Essential publishing support

For authors who already have
illustrations and need layout
and guidance to bring it all together.

Hand-drawn acorn illustration with a sprouting leaf — logo element from The Painted Acorn children's book brand
Botanical illustration of an acorn sprig with roots — nature element from The Painted Acorn website

The Growing
Oak

Illustration & storytelling support

Perfect for authors with a manuscript who need custom, heartfelt illustrations.

Illustration of a leafy tree with roots — handcrafted artwork used in children's book design by The Painted Acorn

The Mighty
Oak

Full-service publishing

From first sketch to print-ready book — with guidance at every step.

Stories told with heart, crafted in collaboration.

Every children’s book I illustrate is shaped through
a creative process
grounded in trust,
curiosity, and care.

Hand-drawn acorn with leafy branches — brand mark for The Painted Acorn, children’s publishing & illustration studio

“Kezzia is an incredibly talented and
professional illustrator to work with. As soon
as I saw her sketches, I knew I had found my illustrator. Kezzia had an uncanny ability to
read my mind and translate my thoughts to life. Her talent aside, she is also a wonderful and genuine person to work with. I look forward to many more collaborations in the future.”

Tamara Anand -
Author “Goose and Moose Go Camping”

“Kezzia is passionate about her work, and it is heart-warming to see her connect deeply with the characters, bringing them to life in such phenomenal illustrations. My vision soon became our vision. She is fun to work with, honest, and thoughtful. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her — her attention to detail
is second-to-none.”

Charlie Taylor -
Author - the “Broken Twigs” Series

“She was completely present and supportive throughout all the stages of development of my two picture books and one set of activity cards. Kezzia listens mindfully to my requests and takes any suggestions into consideration thoughtfully and respectfully. She has become a dear friend who I trust completely to create illustrations that remain dear to readers for years to come.”

Sherry-Lynne Kirschner -
Author “Marvin the Marmot” series

Award-winning stories that stay with readers.

The children’s books I’ve illustrated have gone on to earn national awards and indie honors — not for prestige, but because they were crafted with care. It’s a reminder that heartfelt storytelling, paired with thoughtful illustration, leaves a lasting impression.

Mom’s Choice Awards gold badge — honor awarded for excellence in children’s book illustration and publishing
National Indie Excellence Awards finalist badge — The Painted Acorn recognition for indie children’s book publishing
Reader Views Reviewers Choice Gold Award badge — recognition for excellence in children’s book illustration and indie publishing
Mom’s Choice Awards blue and gold badge — awarded for outstanding children’s book illustration and family-focused publishing
Mom’s Choice Awards silver badge — honored for excellence in children’s publishing and illustration
Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards logo — recognition for outstanding children’s literature, featuring child and adult silhouettes under stars
Wishing Shelf Book Awards 2018 finalist badge — recognition for children’s book illustration and storytelling