The Children’s Books are HERE!
Coming in Spring 2025: Marlin, the Cat. With 45 hand-drawn and painted ink and watercolor illustrations, Marlin is a long-format, literary, family-friendly children’s book for everyone to enjoy. Follow the adventures of a runaway cat in the countryside – who will help him return home? Marlin will be available as both a hardcover and a high-quality paperback, will be printed by a local printer on heavy, sustainable, American-made paper, and will include an endpaper map and wraparound cover illustration. The hardcover will feature linen-textured cover boards, a sewn binding, and extra durability for young readers. The paperback will have a matte cover and Perfect Binding. Reminiscent of children’s classics of the past, Marlin is a suitable gift for ages 4-10. Message me here to purchase a copy from the first printing.
Right: Interior art from Marlin.
My first collaboration, Oma Always Says Yes, a storybook by Robi Keyes, illustrated by Ainsley Bloomfield. Twenty engaging stories about the adventures of Robi’s grandchildren at her bucolic home in Gordonsville, Va. Originally a private commission, the book is now available at Foods of All Nations in Charlottesville, Va. Quality features (designed by Storm Gazer Designs and produced by the Humphries Press of Waynesboro, Va.) include a hardcover, book jacket, and endpapers. See the Custom Illustrations page for a view of the endpapers. You will love this collection of joyful, family-friendly, contemporary minute stories. Out-of-town purchasers: please contact me here!
Left: Artist working on Oma Always Says Yes.
Above: A double-spread illustration.
My first project, Greycat’s Alphabet, which I began working on when I was 10 and self-published using Amazon’s KDP while still in school. This book is a simple paperback with an eclectic collection of ink and watercolor pictures, deeply inspired by Beatrix Potter. The gray kitten featured in the rhyme was a beloved stuffed animal. She has had a great reception with young children locally.
You can purchase Greycat here.
A little about my work…
I can’t remember when I didn’t draw. I produced my first books at age four using a ballpoint pen for the text and crayons for the pictures. I’ve been an ink and watercolor fan since trying the medium in a middle school art class. In 2016, I realized my dream of becoming an author/illustrator with Greycat’s Alphabet.
Since 2018, I have been creating unique cards in a style influenced by classic children’s books. The initial pencil drawing is outlined with a dip pen, then carefully filled in with watercolor. Miniature detail is a specialty, and most originals are the same size as the printed card.
My “college business” has grown into a fulfilling part-time job. Custom painting, vintage-style logos, and book illustration are some services I offer.
My illustrations depict a wide range of subjects, but I tend to specialize in narrative or fanciful scenes with animals or children. Some cards feature calligraphy in the design. Inside, they are usually blank for your own message–no cloying cliches or predigested poetry!
All cards are printed on high-quality 80-pound paper by a local printer, and come wrapped in polypropylene sleeves with included envelopes. Orders will be shipped Priority Mail for a flat rate of $15. I strive to keep all prices as affordable as possible, but the cost of shipping has risen. Alternately, patronize any of the Virginia shops listed on this page.
Thanks for looking, and have a beautiful day!
Illustrations by A. C. B. are available at the following shops:
The Sparrow’s Nest, Staunton, Va.
Nu-Beginning Farm Store, Staunton, Va.
Noel Vintage, Factory Antique Mall, Verona, Va.
Shreckhise Shrubbery, Weyers Cave, Va.
Stoney Run Artisans, McGaheysville, Va.
The Cheese Shop, Stuarts Draft, Va.
Yoders’ Country Market, Madison, Va.
