Scholastic | Written by Ilanit Oliver | Board Book Format | 2025 - 2027
This children’s board book series features oversized, die-cut tabs shaped like story elements delivered throughout each book - eggs, sweet treats, and spooky surprises. The goal of this project was to refresh a classic board book format with a more modern illustration style, updated characters, and contemporary storytelling.
Each title centers around a seasonal celebration and incorporates early learning concepts. I was brought into the project early in the book development and concept phase, creating cover illustrations, tab shape options, and visual direction before the manuscript was finalized.
With three seasonally themed titles and holographic sparkle finishes on the covers, these chunky board books are designed to be both engaging read-alouds and beautiful objects, making them ideal gifts for young children and a great addition to story-time traditions!
5 Little Sweet Treats | Fall 2025
Celebrate friendship and generosity as Baker Mouse delivers oversized confections to the residents of Woodland Falls. Young readers count down from five as this determined mouse wrangles enormous treats to the homes of Owl, Fox, and other woodland friends. With rhyming text and richly detailed scenes this book invites repeat reads all year long.
Visually, I focused on bringing Woodland Falls to life by integrating homes directly into the forest landscape - homes made from logs, gourds and mushrooms. Because February is often gray and dark in much of the United States, I leaned into a bright blue sky, pops of green, and hints of early spring to add warmth and optimism. In each scene, Baker Mouse uses a different kitchen tool to transport the treats, adding visual humor and storytelling details for curious readers.
5 Silly Easter Eggs | Spring 2025
It’s time for the Easter egg hunt! Readers drive along and count down from five to one as Bunny hides giant Easter eggs for each animal friend. This title works as both a springtime picture book and an engaging counting board book, with bright illustrations, chunky pages, and playful egg-shaped tabs designed for little hands.
In addition to collaborating closely with the production team on custom die-lines, I had the opportunity to fully design Spring Field - a charming town filled with friendly animals and oversized Easter eggs. Each egg is uniquely decorated to reflect the personality of the animal receiving it, and every spread reveals a new part of town with homes tailored to its residents.
Bunny’s delivery truck is packed with fun features that help move the story forward, rewarding observant readers and encouraging exploration on every page.
5 Spooky Surprises will be released this Fall - check back for more details!