CHILDREN’S BOOKSMITHS?
We help authors turn their stories into beautifully illustrated children’s books. From early concepts to finished print files, we guide the creative process and help bring your book to life.
WHO WE ARE
Tadaa is a small team of creatives from around the world. Our illustration styles belong to a number of talented illustrators, many of whom have been traditionally published.
As founders, we (Ozan and Anil) are a designer and illustrator couple based in Queensland, Australia.
After working separately in advertising, publishing, animation and game industries, our paths crossed at a publishing house in Turkey. As an art director and illustrator team, we began creating children’s books together in 2008. After relocating to Australia, we continued doing what we enjoy most: making books.
Working with independent authors eventually led us to establish Tadaa in 2013.
From time to time we still collaborate with traditional publishers, creative agencies and animation studios. But our main focus is helping authors bring their own books to life.
As the booksmiths of Tadaa, our goal is to make the self-publishing journey clear, smooth and enjoyable. With a strong focus on art direction, illustration and design, we aim to create beautiful books that can sit comfortably beside traditionally published titles.
WHAT WE DO
We work with authors from the very beginning, guiding the project from manuscript through to the final book.
We also collaborate with organisations such as hospitals, councils, universities and government departments. Picture books and activity books can be powerful tools for explaining complex topics to young audiences, supporting education, or communicating important messages in a clear and engaging way.
ART DIRECTION, ILLUSTRATION & DESIGN
We see art direction, illustration and design as inseparable parts of making a children’s book. Rather than offering these services separately, we approach them as one creative process.
We art direct the project, illustrate the story and design the final book, so the visual storytelling remains consistent from the first sketches to the printed pages.
EDITING
A strong manuscript is the foundation of a great book. We work with experienced editors who can help refine the structure, language and rhythm of your story.
Some authors already have their own editor, which is perfectly fine. Either way, we strongly recommend professional editing before illustration begins.
PRINT CONSULTING
Once the book is ready, we help you prepare it for printing.
Many authors today choose print-on-demand platforms such as Amazon KDP or IngramSpark. Others prefer traditional print runs. We can guide you through these options and help you prepare the correct files for whichever route you choose.
MARKETING MATERIALS
Publishing a book often comes with the need for promotional material. We can design items such as bookmarks, posters, colouring sheets, social media graphics, animated gifs, book trailers and other visual assets.
If you have a creative idea for promoting your book, feel free to tell us. We enjoy interesting ideas. Unfortunately, we still do not bake cupcakes for book launches.
WEBSITE DESIGN
Many authors like to have a small online home for their book. It can be a simple website that introduces the story and the author, or something a little more involved.
We can design and build websites that suit your needs, and help with domain setup, hosting and email if required.
AUTHOR & PUBLISHER BRANDING
If you are publishing under your own imprint, we can help create its visual identity. This may include a logo, social media graphics, business cards, email signatures and other branding elements.
We can also help develop your personal author identity so everything around your book feels consistent and professional.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Are you a publisher?
No, we’re booksmiths. We don’t publish books. But we can guide you through the self-publishing process. And if you’re self-publishing, you’re the publisher. Fancy!
What does it cost to create my book?
We don’t know yet. The time and budget depend on every little detail you have in mind. Let’s talk about it! Send us your manuscript and tell us as much as you can about your vision.
Who owns the copyright?
The illustrator keeps the moral rights, but the copyright is assigned to you. That means you can use the illustrations wherever you like. Nice, isn’t it? Just one thing. Please don’t modify them.
Will I need to share my book sales with you?
No. It’s all yours. You pay us for the work in advance, and that’s it.
I have a tiny budget but I can offer royalties. Does that work?
Nope, sorry. Our talented magic team needs to be paid in advance, not with royalties.
How long does it usually take to make a picture book?
Most books take somewhere from four to eight months. Illustration and art direction take time, and good books should never be rushed.
Do you use artificial intelligence to create illustrations?
No. Our illustrators are real humans with pencils, tablets, coffee, and occasionally very messy desks. Unless you specifically ask for it, we don’t use AI for illustration. Mostly just for proofreading emails.
I already have illustrations. Can you just design the book for me?
We see illustration, art direction, and design as inseparable parts of making a children’s book. For that reason, we only work on books that we start from scratch.
Can you help with editing or proofreading my text?
Of course! We’ll make sure your text is as sharp as a pencil and as smooth as buttered toast. This is, in fact, a part of our process unless you come with your own editor.
How involved will I be in the creative process?
All the way through! You’ll be part of the key decisions, from the storyboard stage to the final approvals.
How will I receive the files?
You will receive print-ready files via Dropbox or Google Drive.
What if I want to create a book but I’m not a writer?
No worries. We can help you turn your ideas into a book. Many authors and organisations want to use books to explain a subject, tell a story, or support a project, but don’t know where to start. You bring the spark. We’ll help light the fire.
I want to make a book. What should I send you first?
Your manuscript, even if it isn’t final yet. We need to read the story before we can quote or accept a project. If you also have ideas about illustration styles, book format, or your vision for the book, feel free to include those too. The more we know, the better we can help.
Do you offer distribution services?
We focus on creating beautiful books. When it comes to distribution, you’ll need to put on your best sales hat.
If you publish through Amazon or Ingram, your book will be available online. But if you want to see it on bookshop shelves, you’ll need to work on distribution yourself. We’ll cheer you on from the sidelines.
Can my book be sold in different countries?
Yes! If you use print-on-demand services like Ingram or Amazon, your book can be printed close to where your readers live. Less shipping, more reading.
Can you help with printing physical books?
We don’t handle printing directly, but we can connect you with reliable printers and make sure your files are perfectly prepared for production.
What happens if I decide to end the project before it’s finished?
We’d be sad to see you go, but we understand. Just know we might shed a single dramatic tear while watching the sunset. Depending on the stage of the project, there may be additional costs or a partial refund.
Do you only make children’s books?
Yes. Picture books are our natural habitat. Every now and then we wander into longer stories and make chapter books too. We also enjoy making activity books for children. But adult books are boring to us. Not to read. Only to make.
I’m an illustrator. Can I join you?
Why not? Write to us and show us what you’ve got.
I work for a publishing house and would like to work with one of your illustrators. Is that possible?
Let’s talk. We like making friends who do what we love to do.
I love one of your illustration styles, but I want to use it for something other than a book. Is that possible?
Most likely, yes. Just tell us what you have in mind.
Are these questions really frequently asked?
No, we made them up. But if you have a question we didn’t think of, please feel free to ask.
READY TO ROLL?
Have a project in mind? Wonder our availability?
Would like to join us? Have a question? Need a quote?
Want to just say hi?
