WHERE DO THEY GO

JULIA ALVAREZ

BOOK DESIGN

My goal was to create bright, colorful,  and interesting illustrations to help keep a child engaged with both the images and the words. I wanted the work to be imaginative but to also leave room for the reader to use their own experiences and imagination to build on the illustrations in the book. 

The Client

Where Do They Go? by Julia Alvarez is a very unique children’s book. It was writting as poem, and gently addresses the topics of death and loss in a way that young children can understand. The publisher is Triangle Square, who works exclusively on children’s book.  The client wanted an eye-catching book cover, as well as a sample illustration and mock-up for a two page spread. 

The Problem

The problem was creating illustrations that are engaging for children, but also has typography that was clear and easy for young children to read. The target age is between 3 -7 years old. This book was written to help children process difficult and complex questions, and to help with vocabulary to be able to express their own thoughts and feelings on what they’re experiencing. 

The Outcome

Working on this project was extremely satisfying. The creative freedom of designing for a younger audience was rewarding. It was also interesting to think about what would appeal to 3 – 7 year olds, as well as their parents.  This demographic is one I had not previously worked with before, and I wanted to be sure the book would be appealing to both groups of people.  Because of the topic of the book, it felt great to know I’d be playing a small part in helping children who may be experiencing grief for the first time.