James Warwood – Designer

👋 Hello,

I’ve been writing, illustrating, and self-publishing my Middle Grade books for over 15 years. I love writing, but over that time I’ve discovered that I love bringing a story to life with drawings even more.

That’s what gets me up in the morning, along with black coffee ☕

I was born and raised in England, but currently live on the border of North Wales (dragon country). I use pencil and pen to outline my illustrations, then put them into Adobe Illustrator to polish them up. My designs and characters are simple, but effective, and have a cheeky and playful style that fits perfectly within middle grade books and light-hearted non-fiction.

Here’s how I can bring your story to life:

💰 Complete eBook & Paperback production (my dream projects are when someone asks me to do everything: illustrations, interior design, and the cover. Having the same person do all three elements is a smart move, plus I’ll also give you a discounted price - it’s a win-win!)

✏️ Hand-drawn illustrations (the bread and butter of chapter books and, because I like to keep things simple, I can keep the cost down too)

🗺️ Detailed and eye-catching maps (I LOVE doing these, they are incredibly fun to draw)

📖 Interior book design (I can help you add the finishing touches so that the words pop-out and the drawings flow in harmony)

📔 Book cover design (I believe that a great book cover is what every book deserves, and I love making that happen)

Here’s my creative process:

🎥 Video call (we’d kick off your book project with a friendly video call. I find this helps us get on the same page and acts a springboard into the next phase)

✍️ Illustration samples (I’d then take the time to draw a few samples of your main character so you can point me in the right direction. We’ll go back and forth until we’ve got it nailed)

📝 Chapter by chapter illustrations & interior design (I’ll then build your book, drawing the illustrations and formatting the text at the same time. While you’re reviewing the latest chapter, I’ll be working on the next one)

⚗️ Regular Revisions, with no limits (I’ll tweak and improve your book until you're happy. I want your book to be the best it can be. )

🧙 Cover design at the end (it’s arguably the most important part and is easier to get right at the end of the project)

Here’s what I can’t do:

🎨 Picture books (big and beautifully coloured designs are not my thing, I do simple black and white doodles. There are plenty of talented illustrators on Reedsy, so I’m sure you’ll find the perfect one)

When I’m not writing or drawing, I’m playing with my two boys in the garden, playing board games with the wife, or playing my bass guitar.

Interested in working with me? It’s time to send a request!

Speak to you soon.

James 😁