Falling back in...
book releases, signings, and my first award?
Hello, my art friends! Apologies for such a long period of nothing. I thank you all for staying subscribed and sticking around for me! Hopefully, all my fun news will make up for my absence!
Since the last newsletter, there have been new books, my first award, events I’ll be attending, and new opportunities to help fellow artists.
Since February, several of the books I illustrated last year have been released! Here is what you missed if you haven’t been following along on my other socials.
“my Calm Down book,” written by Rose Rossner, came out July 1st. My Calm Down Book is the perfect addition to every calm down corner. Each spread uses a different sensory tool to help the child regulate their emotions so they can develop a sense of calm.
In September/October, 10 Minute Taylor Activities was released! Written by Cassie Cook, 10 Minute Taylor Activities is a Taylor Swift-themed activity book for children 4-8, packed with puzzles, crafts, and more than 100 stickers!
Another September release was The World’s Best Christmas Light, written by Chelsea Tornetto. In The World’s Best Christmas Light, a family sets out to find the best Christmas lights in town and discovers the brightest light of all---God’s love shining through a humble nativity scene. With real twinkle lights glowing on the last page, this rhyming board book offers children a beautiful reminder of the true meaning of Christmas.
These books were a joy to work on last year and some into early this year! Having them physically in hand is always one of my favorite parts. Here is a link to my Bookshop, as most of these would make great gifts for the holiday season!
One of the most exciting updates I have for you is that My Calm Down Book was picked as one of the best Kids’ Books of 2025 by Good Housekeeping. Read the full article here.
My Calm Down Book was also awarded as a National Parenting Product Awards Winner!
Does this mean I can call myself an award-winning illustrator? In all seriousness, this has meant so much to me. I have my own battles with anxiety, and this book has even given me tools to bring myself calm. It also has some of my favorite illustrations that I have done.
If you are around the Temecula, California area, I have a few in person events coming up!
Join me and New York Times Best-Selling Author Stacia Deutsch for “Not Just a Hobby: Writing and Art as a Career” on Sunday, November 16th, 2025.
Where:
City of Temecula Civic Center
41000 Main St, Temecula, CA 92590
When:
11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
We will both be sharing our journeys into traditional publishing! This event promises to be an enjoyable experience for both authors and illustrators, offering insights from both of our perspectives.
Calling all Swifties and Olivia Rodrigo fans! I’m excited to be participating in a Signing and Dance Party to celebrate “10 Minute Taylor Activities,” which I illustrated, and “The Story of Olivia Rodrigo,” written by Stacia Deutsch.
Where:
In Bloom Bookery
42031 Main St suite # c, Temecula, CA 92590
When:
November 17th, 6-8 p.m.
Come for some dancing and get your books signed! It promises to be a fantastic time!
Don’t miss the upcoming event “Art Laboratory” at Pennypickle’s Workshop!
Where:
42081 Main St, Temecula, CA 92590.
When: November 30th.
More information coming soon!
Last thing to keep your eye out for, as I will be trying to keep everyone updated with this. I am working on offering virtual 1-hour portfolio reviews! I am telling you to keep myself accountable.
I will be sharing updates as I continue to work on this! This will be your chance to get personalized feedback on your work, ask me questions about the industry, and nail down your goals as an illustrator! Whether you are just starting out or just need some fresh eyes on your work.
Thank you all for reading and sticking with me!
To get more day-to-day content, feel free to follow me on Instagram! I am excited for everything coming up and promise to be more consistent with these newsletters.
If you liked this newsletter, feel free to share it with your friends, and if you have any questions or feedback for me regarding any of the things I mentioned today, leave them in the comments!
Until we speak again,
Amanda
Congratulations on your award and all the exciting endeavors you have ahead! It’s really amazing to see how you have and continue to blossom.