I am an Illustrator 20 August 2026

Publication date: 20-Aug-26
Format: Paperback
Product size: 230 x 230mm
Pages: 36
Age Range: 5-7

The everyday life of illustrator Clara is explored by Kertu Sillaste in a brand-new picture book for children

Inspired by her own experiences as an illustrator, Kertu Sillaste has written and illustrated I am an Illustrator to give children an insight into what everyday life as an illustrator looks like. Combining the challenges of struggling to find creativity and finding the best way to represent an author’s story in pictures with the joys of seeing books come to life with your illustrations and receiving praise, this book perfectly balances the difficulties and delights of the life of an illustrator and presents this rarely discussed profession as an exciting and diverse career option for children.

During the story, Clara, the illustrator and main character, explores a range of different creative mediums, including drawing, collage, painting and digital art introducing children to various artforms and inspiring them to think creatively. This book is also a perfect way to open up discussions about how different people explore creativity as well as introducing children to the creative process and creative careers.

Clara also discusses a number of specific parts of an illustrator’s role including researching, planning illustrations, sketching, character design, matching the style of illustration to the type of story and even silent books helping to provide children with an insight into the type of work that is done by an illustrator before they even begin creating the artwork. It also introduces children to the process of making a book and the different people involved.

Originally published in Estonian, I am an Illustrator has been expertly translated by Adam Cullen, providing a perfect opportunity to introduce young children to the concept of translation and discuss topics around language.

Review Copies & Editorial: To request review copies, interviews or images for editorial use, please contact: media@graffeg.com, Phone: 02922 404970.

Press Release

Kertu Sillaste is an illustrator, art teacher, and picture book author. Sillaste has worked as a graphic designer at the Tallinn Central Library, and currently teaches art at the Estonian Children’s Literature Centre. She has written five books, illustrated 16 works, and is a longtime collaborator with the children’s magazine Täheke. Sillaste was listed in the 2016 White Ravens catalogue and was a candidate for the 2017 Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award.

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Email: croeso@graffeg.com Phone: 01554 824000 Website: www. graffeg.com

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