Storytime Publishers has recorded a strong rise in requests for professionally illustrated children’s books, reflecting renewed interest in artwork created by human illustrators. The company attributes this growth to heightened concern about the role of AI-generated imagery in children’s publishing.
The publisher reports that demand for bespoke illustrations and full-service picture book production has grown consistently throughout 2025, with a particularly noticeable increase in the past two quarters. Many of the submissions are from new authors who are seeking illustrations that match the tone, emotion and themes of their stories.
“Clients are prioritizing artwork with personality, emotional nuance, and consistency,” said a senior illustration coordinator at Storytime Publishers. “Our teams are responding to these requests with expanded illustration services and enhanced author-illustrator collaboration.”
Storytime Publishers says that while some authors initially explored AI-generated visuals, many returned to professional illustration after finding it difficult to achieve consistency across pages and characters. Its illustration teams address these challenges by offering structured creative processes, including multiple concept reviews, character development, colour planning and page-by-page composition.
Expansion of Illustration Services
In response to the increased demand, Storytime Publishers has strengthened its illustration department. New illustrators have been added to the team, additional art-direction checkpoints implemented, and communication processes between authors and illustrators enhanced. These initiatives aim to support authors in producing visually consistent and compelling children’s books suitable for retail, schools, and libraries.
Market Implications
The trend toward professional illustration also reflects broader concerns in the children’s book industry. Educators and librarians increasingly review illustration sources to ensure quality, cultural sensitivity, and age-appropriate content. Storytime Publishers reports a growing number of requests from authors intending to submit books for school and library distribution.
Looking Ahead
Storytime Publishers expects demand for human-created illustrations to continue rising in 2026. The company plans to maintain and expand its illustration services to accommodate the evolving market while supporting authors in delivering visually cohesive and engaging children’s literature.
