Trail Tale Series
Abrams | Board Book Series
Fall 2021/2022
The Trail Tale series invites readers on enchanting, holiday-themed adventures that captivate and delight. Each book is packed with interactive die-cuts and gatefolds, drawing readers into the heart of each season’s magic. With sturdy pages and an expansive, double-wide format, these books make the perfect gift for little ones! I illustrated the first two books in the series: SpookyTale and MerryTale.
SpookyTale - In this Halloween story, follow two children on their way to a haunted house as they travel through the woods, across a swamp, and past creaking gates. Young readers will delight in the clever die-cut surprises on nearly every spread and the dramatic quadruple gatefold at the end that folds out into a special Halloween surprise.
When creating the art for SpookyTale I wanted to ensure just the right balance of sweet and scary, giving young readers a thrilling yet playful experience. Dark and mysterious landscapes set the scene, with hidden "monsters" and spooky sound effects adding just the right amount of suspense. But each page also reveals cute critters and amusing monster interactions, gently reassuring readers that the children are safe and sound. I included intricate details on every spread, while the die-cuts and gatefolds offer an interactive experience that makes SpookyTale far more engaging than a typical book!
“…The illustrations are eye-catching, and the gatefolds allow for a playful approach to vertical space and height. The suspense inherent in the journey, coupled with the positive relief of tension at the end, makes this a fun Halloween tale. A haunted journey worth taking.” (Kirkus 2021)
MerryTale - In this Christmas story, follow two children on their way to Santa’s workshop as they travel through a city, into a gleaming forest, and across the glittering snowscape. Young readers will delight in the clever die-cuts throughout and the dramatic quadruple gatefold at the end that folds out into a special, festive surprise!
The video above shows a flip-through of MerryTale, showcasing the unique die-cut and fold-out features!
The artwork for MerryTale was a heartfelt labor of love, crafted to immerse readers in the magic of the holiday season. Every scene brims with intricate details, inviting readers to join in on this magical adventure. A diverse cast of characters brings an inclusive spirit to the story. Through a thoughtful blend of colors, textures, and secondary characters, each illustration captures cherished holiday moments - whether it's the crisp chill of a winter’s night or the cozy warmth of baking Christmas cookies. The art of MerryTale truly embodies the wonder and warmth of the season!
“…the images are charming, from the wide-eyed deer of the forest to busy elves in the workshop. The differences between the scenes of the quiet, snowy journey and the bustling production line are a nice visual reminder that the holiday season can be both a serene and a busy time of year..” (Kirkus 2022)