Having our kids home this week has opened the door to favorite memories, among them the books they remember most vividly from when they were little. I fully own that, as a sucker for picture books myself, I was not above choosing books “for them” that contained illustrations and stories that I personally found irresistible.

I can’t hide behind my kids any longer so this year I openly requested Colin Meloy’s The Wildwood Chronicles boxed set, beautifully illustrated by his wife Carson Ellis. I can’t wait to get lost in their magical pages during the dark evenings ahead. (For more of Ellis’ wonderful illustration work follow her on Instagram).

In closing out 2017, (and to set the stage for 2018), enjoy this inspiring NY Times article about the children’s book illustrator Loren Long. It is a down-to-earth, non-preachy, un-saccharine look into how someone is fulfilling his calling by successfully navigating what might be considered an insurmountable obstacle. The story also contains a link to a charming Facebook live art video interview with Mr. Long.

Crab     ©2017 Elizabeth Fram, 8.5 x 11 inches, Pen on paper

May the new year bring us all plenty of opportunities to enjoy, through image, the fruits of others’  and our own imaginations. Wishing you a healthy and creatively productive new year!