Scared? was my first commission to illustrate a children’s book and produce a cover design. The poems are intended for older children (ages 7-11) and aren’t afraid of exploring, ‘the tougher side of growing up.’ They discuss children’s fears and worries, tackling everything from snakes to playground bullies, and divorce. It required finding a delicate balance between scary and silly; giving the drawings a touch of darkness while celebrating Neal and Joshua’s genius humour. All the illustrations were drawn by hand using fine liner pens, with a few final touches on Photoshop. I thoroughly enjoyed interpreting these poems, and am proud to have contributed to this original work.

“When commissioning an illustrator for children’s poetry it is essential that the artist has a feel and a regard for the text (poetry) they are visualising and the age group it is aimed at. It is also vital that the artist feels free to come back with ideas. Zoe’s interpretation of some of the characters and scenarios in the poems was exemplary, she brought something visually special to each book, and it’s because of her that both these books are outstanding, her creativity added that much needed extra layer for the poetry to shine brighter and for the reader (and the publisher) to enjoy.

Zoe is a consummate professional, helpful, obliging, able and willing to work to deadlines and schedules, and of course very talented. It is always a pleasure to work with her to create something that one is proud of and that readers will love and treasure.”

- Roy Johnson | Commissioning Editor and & Commercial Director at Troika