As a writer I am fascinated by the journey authors take on their way to publishing a book. Picture books and illustrated chapter books are of particular interest as they often involve two artists finding their styles complement the other. Some writers are lucky enough to also be able to draw to some extent; unfortunately the rest of us have the imagination for creative imagery but not the talent to put it on paper. The dream of many authors is to find that Perfect Partner.
The One.
The author’s Quentin Blake to their Roald Dahl!
A wonderful example of a well-oiled machine of writer and illustrator is the work of Jacqueline Wilson and Nick Sharratt. Wilson had written Tracy Beaker and was searching for an illustrator who would fit with her slightly madcap, and child-friendly style. She met with Nick Sharratt, via her editor, and initially wondered if this man in a boring suit could possibly create slightly whacky, fun imagery? Once she had spied his bright yellow socks, she knew she was on to a winner. Their pairing continues as does their friendship, and their most recent book together, Clover Moon, is out now.
As with Jacqueline Wilson and Nick Sharratt, Roald Dahl’s work was synonymous with one illustrator in particular: Quentin Blake. The pair met in 1975 thanks to their publisher and worked together from 1977 until Roald Dahl died. The work they achieved is a legacy for them, instantly recognisable, and has become part of the British culture. Thankfully, Quentin Blake found similar souls with David Walliams’ and Michael Rosen’s very Dahl-esque ways of being silly, funny, and insightful all at once.
Another perfect pairing of styles can be seen with Neil Gaiman and Chris Riddell. I fell in love with this coupling when I read The Sleeper and The Spindle, Gaiman’s magic and gothic styling and Riddell’s detailed and often bold imagery fit so well together. However, it takes more than just a coming together of talents as communication and understanding each other’s abilities and needs are paramount to achieving a result that looks like it could never have been written and drawn any other way.
Seeing the wonderful collaborations and partnerships between these writers and illustrators gives me hope that that there is a Nick Sharratt out there for everyone. We would love to hear of any other writer/illustrator partnerships you feel deserve a special mention- let us know here or on our Facebook post!
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