The deadline monster should be terrorising me but…

he’s napping under my desk

This is a quickie because I have a deadline 👋

Usually, when I have a publishing deadline, the deadline monster lurks at every corner, stressing me out.

But this time, I don’t think he even realises there is a deadline because I am having such a lovely time (how many times can I say deadline in the first three sentences 😂?)

Whatever it is that usually brings him out of hibernation, my panic pheromones, the bags under my eyes, I dunno. He hasn’t got wind, and he’s leaving me alone.

This book is so much fun that the work comes easily, and he can sleep right through it. I don’t need him.

Maybe it’s because I am making the whole book entirely on paper, with no digital process. Perhaps it’s because I am taking my magnesium supplements and sleeping eight hours a night (amazing!) Maybe it’s because this book feels extra special. I dunno.

Here’s a wee sneaky peek 👀 at Salty Dog (written by me and

Katie Chappell

and illustrated by moi)

Long may it last! Here’s to making lovely books that come easily and don’t feel stressy on the last leg!

BTW I always resort to comfort audio or telly whilst illustrating. This time is has been St Cuthbert’s Time by Chris Watson (sounds of nature recorded on Holy Island, I love it), Downton Abbey (a kind of bad posh soap operah) the new All Creatures Great and Small (works like a nice vintage sedative) and The Detectorists (ah, lovely).

How do you cope with the deadline monster? What sounds or telly accompany you on the last leg?

Helenx

P.S. The doors to the Good Ship Illustration ‘Illustrators Business Course’ close tonight. Don't miss out!