Storytime Publishers has reported a clear increase in demand for professionally illustrated children’s books, pointing to a growing preference for artwork created by human illustrators. The publisher links this shift to mounting concerns about the use of AI-generated images in children’s literature.
The company says requests for bespoke illustration and complete picture book production have increased steadily across 2025, with the most pronounced growth occurring in the final two quarters. A large number of submissions are from first-time authors who are looking for illustrations that maintain visual consistency while supporting the tone and message 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 notes that many authors initially experimented with AI-generated visuals but later returned to professional illustration after encountering difficulties with cohesion and narrative alignment. Its illustration teams respond by offering structured creative support, including multiple concept stages, character design development, colour scripting and detailed page layout planning.
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.
