Bringing characters to life is more than art – it’s about creating connections and inspiring imaginations
Kim Bakes A Cake
Client.
Sara McFall, a dedicated writer with a passion for children’s education, envisioned “Kim Bakes a Cake” as a book that blended fun and learning. Targeted at young readers and their parents, the book sought to make education engaging and enjoyable.
Challenge.
Sara needed a Komodo dragon protagonist who balanced scientific accuracy with a friendly and captivating design. The challenge was to create a character that could charm young readers while maintaining its authenticity as an educational tool.
The Steps.
Client’s
Perspective
As a first-time author, Sara was initially unsure about the character design and overall creative approach. We guided her through every step of the process, providing drafts of Kim’s character to refine the style, colors, and personality. This collaborative journey ensured Sara’s confidence in the project and brought her vision to life.
Audience
Insights
Observations of children interacting with Komodo dragons at zoos provided valuable insights. By understanding how young audiences perceived these reptiles, we shaped Kim’s design to be both relatable and enchanting.
Brainstorming
Conceptualizing
Our process began with intensive brainstorming sessions. We explored ways to strike a balance between the Komodo dragon’s natural traits and a whimsical, child-friendly personality. These early discussions laid the foundation for Kim’s unique character.
Artistic Inspiration
Design Process
Kim’s design journey merged scientific accuracy with playful charm. Inspired by her anatomy, we created a character that was true to her species while reflecting a whimsical personality. Each iteration focused on blending authenticity with approachability.
Color Palette &
Personality
Kim’s tinted pink glasses became her signature feature, symbolizing optimism and a unique perspective. This detail added depth to her character, enhancing her charm and versatility within the narrative.
Client
Collaboration
Sara’s feedback was vital throughout the project. Her vision guided the artistic process, and her suggestion for vibrant colors elevated Kim’s design, adding liveliness that aligned perfectly with the story’s tone.
Client’s
Satisfaction
Sara expressed deep satisfaction with the final result, noting how Kim exceeded her expectations. Her son’s excitement about the book underscored its success and emotional resonance.
Project
Impact
The book resonated with children and parents, offering a seamless blend of education and entertainment. Kim’s design became a cornerstone of its appeal, setting a benchmark for creative storytelling in children’s literature.
Reception
“Kim Bakes a Cake” received exceptional feedback, marked by its inclusion in the Nashville Zoo gift shop during the launch of their Komodo dragon exhibit. This strategic placement boosted both sales and relevance, aligning with the book’s educational mission. Its vibrant and relatable protagonist captivated young readers, solidifying its success and inspiring further collaborations with Sara.
Collaborating with Sillygoose was a dream come true. Their expertise in bringing Kim to life was extraordinary. The book’s success is a joy, and I’m excited about our future projects together. – Sara McFall
Closing Thought
This project demonstrates the power of thoughtful design in children’s literature. By aligning creativity with education, we brought Kim to life, creating a character that inspires curiosity and joy while supporting Sara’s mission to make learning fun.
