How our books are made: from a photo to a printed hardcover
The stories
Every story is written for reading aloud, with a proper beginning, a funny middle and a warm ending. We read them out loud many times while writing, to get the rhythm right and make sure they work for one child, two or three. They are written in British English, for children from about 2 to 8.
The pictures
Each book is illustrated in our own watercolour style: loose ink lines and soft washes on textured paper, like the picture books many of us grew up with. Every page of every story is checked by a person before the book goes on the site.
Painting your child in
When you add a photo, we use image software to paint your child as a storybook character in the same style. You choose the version that looks most like them. When you order, your child is painted into every page, keeping their face, hair, freckles and glasses, so they look like they have always been part of the story.
The printed book
- 20 cm square hardcover with a matt cover.
- Thick 170 gsm silk paper, so the colours stay rich and the pages stand up to lots of reading.
- Printed and bound in the UK, then posted with tracked delivery.
Your photos
Photos are used only to paint your book and are deleted automatically within 7 days. More on our privacy page.
Books in this post
The Shoes That Wouldn't Stop Dancing
A pair of magic ballet shoes dance your child all over town, past the bakery, through the park, and onto the stage. For anyone with a wobbly tummy before a show.
The Animal Hospital
Your child's animal hospital is open behind the shed, and the woodland queue goes all the way to the gate. Hiccups, jam, and a very big bear.
The Unicorn Who Made Grey Rainbows
Clementine's first rainbow keeps coming out grey. Your child knows the secret: sometimes you have to stop trying so hard, and jump in a puddle.