Student Creates Illustrations for Published Children’s Book

Sydney Kysar ‘21, The Circle’s very own Chief of Design, can now add illustrations from a published children’s book to her impressive portfolio of design work, which includes newspaper layouts, 3-D models and animation. 

Kysar was enlisted to create the illustrations for “The Greenes: The Magical Plant,” a 24-page children’s book, set to be published this winter. Kysar was granted creative liberty to sketch, design and layout every page. 

Sydney Kysar, a Marist senior, contributed illustration to the published children's book, "The Greenes: The Magic Plant." Source: Sydney Kysar ‘21

“Seeing everything come together was extremely rewarding,” Kysar said. As the pages unfold, readers watch the tale come to life. By embellishing the illustrations with thoughtful details such as sparkles next to the strawberries, Kysar brought spirit to the pages.

The children’s book follows a brother-sister duo who decide to plant strawberries in their backyard. The story unfolds over the course of a few months, revealing the process of gardening and the glorious rewards. In educating young readers on the benefits of sustainable gardening, the story also reveals the importance of appreciating the environment. 

Eric Wilson, the author of “The Greenes: The Magical Plant” and advisor for the environmental club at Kysar’s high school in Los Angeles, California, recruited Kysar for the project. While in high school, Kysar worked closely with Wilson, creating designs for the club. Wilson reached out to Kysar this year, knowing she would be able to help create an impactful story that reveals the importance of sustainability, while also appealing to young readers. 

Kysar first began working on the illustrations for the story in September and sent the final piece to print on Oct. 31. Although it was an arduous and time-consuming endeavor, Kysar enjoyed the entire process. She spent five to six hours designing every illustration and creating the layout for the 24-page book. 

While it’s a huge feat to publish a book, Kysar did so while also finishing her senior thesis project in digital media and animation, and concluding her double minor in graphic design and music. 

“The Greenes: The Magical Plant” is in its final stage of production, and the publication process reflects the book’s goal of encouraging sustainability. “We’re working with a local print shop and supporting a local business in Los Angeles, which is really cool,” Kysar said. 

Kysar and Wilson already have plans to collaborate on at least two more books. In the future, Kysar foresees herself accepting more freelance opportunities to illustrate for children’s books. 

Preorder “The Greenes: The Magical Plant” here.