A Book Cover Challenge

Today I challenged my illustrator, Alexandria, to help with the next Annie the Porcupine cover design.

Now, let me be clear—I'm absolutely in love with the illustration. It captures such a tender moment—Annie thinking about all the things she loves about her mom. The scent of dandelion tea. The way her mother reads stories in all the different voices. The cozy afternoons spent cooking together. It's soft, warm, and full of heart—just like Annie's memories. 

But there's just one teeny-tiny problem...

It's a double-page spread. Great for the inside of the book—not so much for a cover. So I asked Alexandria to work her magic and adapt it. A few tweaks here, a little repositioning there—simple enough, right?

Except then I gave her one more task. 

I want the cover to be green. Not just any green—but a green that feels like spring and growth and motherly love. A completely different tone from the bluish-purple color of the original artwork.

Is she up to the task?

Honestly? If anyone can do it, she can. But I won't lie... I may be making popcorn and watching from the sidelines like this is a reality show art challenge.

Will she rise to the occasion? Will Annie get the perfect cover she deserves?

We'll just have to wait and see.