Design

This series won first place for educational series book covers in the 2019 New York Book Show.

This demonstrates the number of pieces per level within the series. Each book was approximately 80 pages.

This was the product that introduced me to the heart of Sopris West and Marilyn Sprick, the author and originator of the series. The teamwork and dedication that went into the stories and execution of this product is still a model of collaboration for me today.

Students graduate from first sounds to devouring subjects that range from interesting characters to science to history. Personally, my favorite review was from a young lady who was so excited about a book of "Unsolved Mysteries" that she physically kissed the cover as it was being unpacked.

Yes, we teach the building blocks of reading, but the most important function of our jobs was to unleash a love of learning and curiosity.

Cool climate, colors and textures create a different environment for words on the page as students explore polar bear facts and fiction.

The highest level of readers has a more intense color palate themes. I designed and worked with a team to produce this book series.

These designs use bold colors and textures of fabrics to represent areas of Latin America. Simple maps and graphs orient students and provide deeper understanding. Colorful photos throughout illustrate all the beauty and rich heritage of the area.

I designed and did production on complete books. This is a sample from some international spreads.

Details create connection for all of us, and there are many stories to be told. Whether is it a visual pun or written joke, or the understanding that this girl was MY AGE when this important historical event happened to her . . . we have an opportunity and an obligation to create bridges, understanding and compassion.

These oversized books were designed for Pre-K teachers to read to a group of students. Our budget only allowed for stock photography to cover various topics, some of which covered the evolution of a seed to a plant, various combinations of animals or scenes.

Sourced and negotiated historic art for Nelson Mandela pages, which contributes emotion and context for the writing. Found public domain art and editorial images for non-fiction passages that reinforces themes and mood for what might be dry scientific material for some. Maintained art logs and documentation for thousands of images for various projects.

Sourced and contributed text for author and story details that created deeper connection and understanding for students. Historical art woven into the stories enriches the literary experience—and in many cases are in the public domain.

The logo and screened back clock were already part of a series. I chose the photos and colors for this design update.

These designs were created as a modern update to an earlier edition. Interior sections tied lessons to cover topics, and the design department had the pleasure of writing many of them. The idea was to present the material in a visual way, giving students another avenue of learning.