Kindness Detective

Illustration & Graphic Design
I was entrusted with the magical task of transforming a story into a visual experience. Words, imbued with Ashley Abeles' wisdom and compassion, served as my guide as I embarked on a journey of illustration and typography. It was an opportunity to breathe life into the narrative, to translate emotions into visuals that would resonate with young hearts.

My illustration process often begins with the playful and expressive world of watercolors. To achieve a more polished and refined outcome, I transitioned to Procreate in the final stages of these illustrations. Procreate enables me to refine linework, add subtle gradients and textures, and adjust color balance for a more cohesive and professional look. Additionally, the ability to easily duplicate and manipulate layers allows for greater flexibility and experimentation, ultimately resulting in more polished and impactful illustrations.

Client
Different Roads

  • Kindness Detective Book Cover, written by Ashley Abeles, MSEd, Illustrated by Melissa DiPeri

    Book Cover

  • Illustrated spread with focus on food allergies and how important it is to listen to friends that have food allergies.

    Interior Spread

  • They all faced troubles others had not known, and all of them sometimes felt alone. But when they walked in each other's shoes, they could see each other's views. Illustration of all the children's feet in different shoes.

    Important Page

  • The main character in this spread is focusing on looking at things from other people's perspectives.

    Interior Spread

  • Shoe pattern, representing putting yourself in others shoes, which is the common theme throughout the book

    Pattern

  • The main character is focusing on a new student that is stressed about his new school.

    Interior Spread

Author Ashley holding Kindness Detective book in her headshot

ASHLEY ABELES, MSEd, Author of Kindness Detective

“It has been a pleasure to work with Melissa on the illustration of our children’s picture book. She is a dedicated, creative, and collaborative team member. Melissa has a wonderful ability to openly accept feedback while also expressing her artistic vision. I am immensely appreciative of her hard work and commitment to our joint goal!”