Who is holding the pencil at Pencil Pals?
It’s me, Helen Stephens. My books have won fancy prizes and been spoken about in high places. But I don't like to harp on about that.
Maybe you know my How to Hide a Lion books?
“My favourite book is How to Hide a Lion because you make books less boring. You put exclamation marks in and by the way you are the best author in the world. I’m six, I forgot to say that. Oh well.”
Maya, age 6
Smelly Peggy is out now!
I am one of the three Captains at The Good Ship Illustration
(I am the GOOD one on the left)
We offer no-nonsense advice for illustrators and image makers navigating a creative career. There are lots of FREEBIES on our website, go and take a look.
Listen to The Good Ship Podcast
All subscribers get EVERYTHING 💌
Yep, everything!
That means:
🍽️ The Sunday Buffet – a weekly roundup of what’s going on round my gaff. Expect things like my kitchen playlist, DIY shenanigans, updates on any ghost sightings (never seen one yet, but I will definitely keep you posted), plus the books, telly and podcasts I’m loving, and a peek at any Vinted parcels or junk shop treasures.
🎨 Regular posts about illustration and making picture books –behind the scenes insights and #walktosee sketch-booking announcements.
Why become a paid subscriber?
Because it helps me keep writing these posts.
If you can chip in, it makes a real difference and I’m massively grateful. ❤️
But if money’s tight right now, that’s totally OK – you’ll still get everything. No paywalls, no secrets posts.
Why this way?
I want this to be a kind, democratic space.
If you’re able to support my work, you’re helping make it possible for everyone to be here – and that feels like a good way to do things.
So if you can, please consider becoming a paid subscriber.
And if not, you’re still very welcome here.
Subscriptions are £6/month or £60 a year. There is a 7 day free trial too. There’s also a Founding Member option for £150
Thanks for reading Helenxx
