Middle Grade Illustration Master Class:

Unlock the Secrets to Success in the Middle Grade Chapter Book Market!


Dive into our exclusive mini master class designed specifically for illustrators who want to thrive in one of the most dynamic and profitable markets today. This comprehensive course features:

  • Engaging Videos: Learn from an industry expert, about the nuances of the middle grade chapter book industry.
  • Downloadable Guides: Access essential resources to enhance your understanding and skills.
  • Illustration Briefs: Get real-world examples and practice assignments to create a marketable and refined portfolio.
  • Tips Sheets: Discover industry insider intel that will elevate your work and stand out in a competitive field.

You already know how to draw, now it's time to master the art of success in the middle grade chapter book industry. Join us and transform your passion into a thriving career!


Here's a breakdown of what the course covers:

  1. Creating an Eye-Catching Portfolio: Learn how to put together a portfolio that will stand out to publishers and clients in the chapter book market.
  2. Pricing and Negotiation: Get insights into how to price your work and negotiate contracts effectively.
  3. Investment in Cover Art: Understand why adding cover art to your portfolio can be a valuable investment and how it enhances your illustration skills.
  4. Illustrating for Multiple Markets: Discover how you can diversify your illustration skills to work in different markets while focusing on chapter books.
  5. Chapter Book Illustration Portfolio Builder Checklist: Receive a printable checklist that outlines the types of illustrations you need in your portfolio, including spot art for various chapter book genres.
  6. Illustration Briefs: Access briefs that help you create focused, chapter book-themed artwork to strengthen your portfolio.
  7. Self-Paced Learning: Enjoy the flexibility to work on the course at your own pace, fitting it around your schedule.

If you have any questions, you can reach out to them at [email protected].

Curriculum Overview


Module 1: Intro and Welcome

  • Overview of the Course: Goals, structure, and expectations.
  • Introduction to Key Concepts: Cover art and chapter book illustration overview.


Module 2: Illustrating the Right Characters

  • Character Design Basics: Understanding character profiles, traits, and personalities.
  • Portfolio Building: Tips on creating distinctive and memorable characters specific to the Middle Grade market. Learn how the wrong characters can make you loose commissions and opportunities, and how to prevent that.


Module 3: Interior Art - from Chapter Openers to Full Internals

  • Chapter Openers: Techniques for designing engaging chapter openers to expand your market reach as an illustrator.
  • Full Internal Illustrations: Approaches for creating artwork that complements and enhances the text.
  • Layout and Integration: How to effectively integrate illustrations with written content.


Module 4: Pricing, Social Media, and Negotiations

  • Pricing Strategies: How to price your work appropriately and understanding industry standards.
  • Social Media: Building an online presence and using social media for promotion and networking.
  • Negotiation Skills: Best practices for negotiating for cover art jobs.


Module 5: Illustrate Your Own Covers and More!

  • Cover Design: Techniques for creating eye-catching and effective book covers.
  • Final Lesson: Get takeaways and action steps to further your career.

Emily's Cover Art History:

A Legacy of Success

Since 2014, I've been dedicated to helping illustrators break into the cover art market, and I’m excited to bring that expertise to you! My journey began with a pivotal deal securing a cover art series with Simon & Schuster for a talented illustrator who was new to the American market and cover art scene.

Through hands-on collaboration on sample artworks, this illustrator went on to create an entire series and earned numerous cover art commissions with high-profile authors. This success story was just the beginning.

Since then, I’ve guided countless illustrators into the middle-grade cover art industry, helping them land chapter book jobs and achieve remarkable success in this field.

Now, I’m thrilled to share all that knowledge and insight with you through this mini master class. Learn the secrets of cover art that sell, gain insider tips, and take your illustration career to new heights—all from the comfort of your own home.

Ready to Step Up and Improve Your Existing Illustration Career?

If you're already an accomplished illustrator but looking to pivot into new markets, you’re in the right place! I specialize in helping talented artists make the leap from game and concept art, licensing and product design, to picture books, board books, and beyond.

With a proven track record of guiding illustrators from diverse backgrounds into successful cover art careers in the middle grade, early reader, and YA markets, I’m here to help you expand your portfolio’s marketability and open new doors.

Let’s transform your existing skills and experience into captivating cover art that resonates with readers and publishers alike.

Ready to elevate your career? Join the class today.

Choose Your Path: Take the Class Alone or Add Exclusive Coaching for Maximum Impact!

Ready to elevate your illustration career? You have the flexibility to:

  • Take the Class on Your Own: Dive into our comprehensive course at your own pace. Absorb all the essential lessons on becoming a middle grade chapter book illustrator and create a standout portfolio on your own terms.
  • Supercharge Your Learning with Coaching: For a personalized experience, add one-on-one coaching! Work directly with industry expert Emily to implement what you’ve learned, receive tailored feedback, and accelerate your path to success.

Don’t miss out! Scroll down to explore all your options and choose the perfect plan to fit your needs and goals. Transform your illustration career with the support and guidance you need!


Enrollment Options

Join the class as on demand on your own time, or add in one to one coaching on 2 covers at the end of the class.