You might say my initial request for an illustrator was very successful as I received many replies to my ad. Some were accompanied by sample drawings that were nicely done but not quite the vision that I had for my first children’s book. Then I got a reply from Mandy, and she simply said she would like to work with me. She referred to a book that she had recently done. I looked at the book she worked on, and read her biography.  She is the real deal, and she will come through for your project.
Once we completed the contract, I emailed her a document with the story line, what the text should say, and a few pictures to lay out the scenes. She kept telling me that she had a timeline and would send drawings in increments to keep the project moving. I looked at them and it was just what I was looking for. I wanted the book to show kids that were uncomplicated, having fun, enjoying being kids, being inquisitive. Mandy’s drawings captured all of that, and she did it with bright colors, clear lines, and panoramic views. After the early days, I realized that she knows her business, and I just let her work. I would only inhibit her creativity if I bugged her about minor details. The first book is wonderful, I am very happy with it. The second book was even easier as I emailed her the associated documents and she just started her work and produced a good book.
In the whole process I made just a few minor changes that had to do with certain scenes. She has a great sense about scale, color combinations, and kids happily engaged in their play or work.  I was happy for illustrations that are uncomplicated, relaxed, colorful, and natural. Mandy was a treasure to find, and a pleasure to work with. I have another book planned and I will just have Mandy do it, she will do it without any troubles.