Author: Ken

I am a children's book illustrator and author. I trained as a graphic designer, and have worked in publishing for over thirty years.
Nowadays I work at Harper Collins running an inclusive global imprint called Kumusha Books. I still write and illustrate children's books though and enjoy every minute immersed in publishing!

Experiments in lockdown


I’ve been getting to grips with digital painting over the last few months. It’s nothing like good old fashioned paint and canvas, but it has some advantages worth making the effort for. The only comment I can offer which might be of any use is that illustrating digitally requires a different approach. Think of constructing…… Continue reading Experiments in lockdown

Covid-19 messages

Coid messaging

Designs for a campaign telling people in Zimbabwe about the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. The social media campaign has three phases. It began with simple messages in line with government instructions, followed by messages with more explanation and ending with suggestions about life after the virus.  We made short videos featuring children and young people asking…… Continue reading Covid-19 messages

Scoop Magazine


Recent work for Scoop Magazine for children, telling the story of Kwanzaa and its founder. I've included some of the sketches too.


Recent work for Scoop Magazine for children, telling the story of Kwanzaa and its founder. I’ve included some of the sketches too.

Astro Girl Heads to the Sun

Astro Girl

    I got an email saying; “I’m just emailing to let you know that the Otter-Barry Books title, Astro Girl, will be read by Kristin Scott Thomas on the CBeebies Channel tomorrow at 6.50pm.” And a wonderful reading it is, I am sure you will agree. https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m000g8cm/cbeebies-bedtime-stories-744-dame-kristin-scott-thomas-astro-girl

17 Promises

17Promises

25 February was a bit of a milestone. It was the day that 17 Promises launches at the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development (ARFSD) taking place at Victoria. falls, Zimbabwe. In 2015 The UN asked the world to pledge to deliver on 17 Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs) between 2015-2030. The SDGs as #17Promises™ leaders made to…… Continue reading 17 Promises