A Lichfield illustrator has won a paid commission to bring the Greek myth of Perseus and Medusa to a children’s digital reading platform.
Charlie Vickerstaff, 20, is a third-year student at Birmingham City University. Her illustrations have been published by Booktime after she took part in its national From Brief to Publication programme.
The scheme gives students experience of working to a publishing brief and the chance to secure a paid book illustration commission. Charlie and fellow student Maryam Kalam both won pitches to have their artwork published.
Charlie said: “It’s my first time working with a proper client, which is a little daunting, but incredibly exciting. It feels like a real first step in the right direction.”
She added: “I’ve loved Greek myths since I was quite young.”
Booktime is an initiative of the Hindawi Foundation, offering free illustrated children’s books in multiple languages through an app and website. According to the charity, its platform reaches more than 250,000 readers a month.
Founder Ahmed Hindawi said: “We’re building a library of original stories in many languages, and fantastic illustrations are key.”
“Working with students brings new ideas and perspectives, and we’re always excited to see what emerging illustrators can do,” he added.
The story and photograph were supplied for publication by Judy Williams at Empica.