Meeting with Illustrator

During my recent trip to California, I had the honor of sitting down and meeting with the illustrator for my upcoming Children's book.

It's funny how things work out. After Morgan and I joined the therapy dog team at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, I wrote "Morgan: The Goofy Therapy Newfie". I wanted a brilliant illustrator to introduce Morgan to everyone. I went to our Local Book stores and libraries. Spending hours looking and reading Children's book. I found a book illustrated by Patricia Eubank and it grabbed me. I decided she was who I needed for this project. I bought the book then went straight to Google. A quick search and there was her website. I emailed her then found her Facebook page which allowed me to send her a PM. A few days later she responded and although she was very busy she would love to hear more about my book.

I sent her the manuscript and waited. A week or so later, I got a response. She loved the manuscript and wanted to illustrate Morgan but had a few projects to complete first, would I be willing to wait. YES!

Six months later, it was my turn. Patti made me a "dummy book" which is so much fun to get and I suggest all illustrators do. It's a rough idea of the images that came to her mind as she read the manuscript. I loved it and was ready to make my deposit. The thing is, I'm not really great with techy stuff. I couldn't figure out how to get her the deposit, in the way she wanted. I asked her if I could mail her a check and she said of course. When she gave me her address, I stopped and laughed.

Did you know that Patti lives two miles from my family in Santa Ynez, California. What are the chances? I lived 2 miles from this amazing person until 1998, when I moved to Pittsburgh. We started to work together via phone and emails January 2025. When I planned a November trip home to be with family, I asked Patti if she'd like to meet in person. YES! Patti and I had a great time working on books, talking about family and playing with her beautiful young Newfie, Daisy. Patti is such a glorious soul.

Patricia Eubank graduated from Principia college as an art major. Then moved on to studied for two years at LA Art Center and later a year and half at Gnoman. She has illustrated 20 books plus creates Logos, storyboards and commissions. Patricia always includes at least one Newfie in each book, which is how Sarah decided to reach out to her.  She was born and raised in California where she still lives with her husband and 4 adult kids, plus three fur babies. Patricia’s website is full of creative fun.  Website - patriciaeubank.com

Morgan: The Goofy Therapy Newfie will be available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble's web site before Christmas 2025