FAQ
Q: Would you be willing to look at my manuscript?
A: Sorry. I really can’t. Sometimes writers want to show me their work to get approval. Other times they think I might love it so much I can help them get it published. Other times, I get sent things with no warning at all. I’d love to help everyone, but I can’t. It is a conflict of interests for me to read other writers’ ideas when I am potentially working on similar ideas. I recommend joining a local, impartial writers critique group to get help with your writing.
Q: I am working on a picture book manuscript and I need an illustrator. Are you available?
A: For requests to work on books by private individuals, there are so many reasons that the answer to this question is most always, “no”. Making books is a time-intensive job; and I have to give my attention to my own projects. Lastly, most requests of this nature come from very enthusiastic individuals who are excited about the idea of making a book, but not as knowledgeable about the business of kid lit publishing. If you are serious and passionate about your work, then the best thing you can do is learn about the protocol of professional publishing, and just focus on your writing.
Q: Can I hire you as an illustrator?
A: If you are a literary agent wanting to represent me, or book publisher who wants to work with me, absolutely. Other freelance projects are case-by-case — feel free to contact me. For private, independent book project requests, I currently do not work outside the parameters of professional publishing protocols – I am not accepting any private party requests of this nature, (see above). For custom artwork inquiries, visit SketchRequest.com to buy very affordable custom sketches.
Q: Do you ever come to schools to give presentations?
A: Absolutely! A big part of my career is actually spent doing the presentations I give at schools & libraries, book stores, and conferences. For a detailed list of the programs I offer, please take a peek at the Presentations section.
Q: We want to have you come to our school, but our budget is very tight. Suggestions?
A: I love working with schools that genuinely try everything they can. Ask me about piggybacking with other schools. What’s the next best thing to a school visit? Ask me about my new live video Classroom Webcasts! Perfect for small classrooms or schools with tighter budgets!
Q: We would love to have you at our event. We can’t pay you, but you could sell your books and music.
A: It never hurts to ask, but I am extremely selective of the frequency of charitable donated presentations I do per year. There are times where I do this, (festivals, parent nights) – however, unless your situation is an extremely unique scenario, most times it would not be fair to other schools or libraries. The best I can offer is “very affordable”.
If you are a school or library seeking an assembly, my best advice is to plan an author event into your budget ahead of time, so that part of the process is secured. Apply for grants, or work with a P.T.O. to plan ahead rather than asking a presenter to compromise his or her livelyhood. Its the best way to ensure a quality event for everyone. Personally, I would not be able to survive as an author-illustrator if my presentations were done for free, (similarly, most people wouldn’t be able to go to work at their jobs if they didn’t get a paycheck at the end of the week). A big part of my career income is from giving presentations. Being able to sell my books at events is an added bonus, but it is the combination that helps me continue working in this career.
Q: Can you tell me how to get published?
A: I wish there was a simple answer. Making books is like any other skilled career – it requires a serious dedication to learn how to do your job. There are wonderful books out there ranging from everything from writing a great query letter to why you should get an agent. There are also organizations dedicated to educating those interested in pursuing this as a career. The first place to look? Your local library.
Q: I have a great idea for a story. Who should I contact to market it?
A: (I get asked this quite a bit). Ever hear the term, “ideas are cheap”? You have a 1-in-a-1,000 chance at selling your idea. Publishers are not buying ideas, as far as I know. They are buying a person’s hard work when they show an expertise at their craft, (writing/illustrating). My advice is to turn your idea into something real first.
Q: What do you mean when you use the word “whimsical”?
A: “Whimsical” is the category / format / subject of the illustrations I do – my “drawing style”. Its almost too hard to put it into words. The word means “fanciful, cute, and endearing”, but that can describe a lot of things that I wouldn’t always call “whimsical”. The word also sometimes means “unpredictable”. To me, “whimsical” really means that my drawing style is a simple & obtainable look for younger audiences; and the subjects I prefer to draw are typically things more innocent and charming.
Q: When will your next book be out?
A: Soon? I am not sure really. I don’t have a shortage of ideas. The truth is, the timetable of making books — from idea-to-shelf — is a longggg process. I do have a few new books in the works, but they take time. Also, a huge part of the waiting game is selling the book, then the long creation process, and even after it is finished, publishers may delay the timing of the release. Every new book goes through the same slow process.
Q: I have a question I didn’t see answered here. Can I contact you?
A: Sure! Please keep in mind, business inquiries will get top priority, all general questions do get answered in time, but sometimes my response is brief. I am also on Twitter for your best chance at a fast response.
You can also contribute your question for all to benefit from seeing here:
Formspring (social FAQ)
www.formspring.me/ryanhipp