Millicent Mugwort Tries Again is a children’s book about a young witch who learns the value of persistence and not giving up even when things are hard. The project brought together illustration, layout, and storytelling to create something both playful and meaningful for young readers.
The Why (Challenge / Context)
The story and text were provided as a starting point, and the goal was to bring them to life in a way that could be shared with younger family members. We wanted the book to carry a positive, encouraging message while also feeling like a keepsake—something that could exist both as a printed gift and a digital story.
My Role + Process
Designed the main character and supporting cast.
Created page layouts and illustrations, from draft sketches to final painted spreads.
Worked with the printer to prepare production-ready files and ensure a polished final product.
Used Clip Studio Paint for illustration and InDesign for layout.
Experimented with a new digital painting technique to give the book a unique look and feel, distinct from my other work.
Outcome / Impact
The book was printed and gifted to family members, and a digital version was shared online for a wider audience. It was warmly received, and it felt rewarding to have transformed words on a page into a finished storybook people could actually hold in their hands.
Reflection / Takeaway
This project pushed me to iterate on character design, making characters feel related yet distinct. It also gave me the chance to explore a new painting style that has since influenced my other illustration work. Most importantly, it reinforced how much I value using illustration as a tool for meaningful storytelling.
Click for digital version of Millicent Mugwort Tries Again.