My "mission", if you can call it that, is to connect with my readers on an emotional level and have them come away with a stronger impression of the basic message in the story I am illustrating.

I will always be an artist first. I see my writing as an extension of my illustrating.

Research is always a very necessary part of my process because all of my books to this point have been historical. Time spent in the library adds to one's wealth as a writer or artist.

I try to use models at least for the main characters because of the nature of my art. I tend to focus on the humanity of my subjects, the details of expression that add a certain reality to the work. Real faces = real art. That's the goal anyway.

I like people. Humanity. My family is a part of my work. They contribute throughout the process with critiques, advice, opinions, etc.

I have many who keep me going, I am very fortunate in this sense. There is nothing like a child who knows more about your books than you do!

My "mission", if you can call it that, is to connect with my readers on an emotional level and have them come away with a stronger impression of the basic message in the story I am illustrating.