Your Move

A seasoned children’s book artist, Tim Bowers sees himself as a storyteller. And indeed, our Merrymakers covers, based on a series of Tim’s paintings, invite you to find a moment to sit down and discover what happens next in the story. With his lovable characters and their innocent frolics, he creates an atmosphere of kindness and harmony for all – young and old – to enjoy.

Born in Troy, Ohio, Tim studied at the Columbus College of Arts and Design to prepare himself for a career as a professional illustrator. After producing promotional imagery for a commercial illustration studio, he joined Hallmark Cards and helped to establish the company’s popular Shoebox line of humorous cards.

Eventually, his penchant for comical portrayals of animal characters gained the attention of publishers of children’s literature. Since the 1986 release of the first book featuring his illustrations, Tim has collaborated on several dozen books, many of which have received awards, including two titles that made the New York Times bestseller list. More recently, he has been working in the genre of miniature painting, creating small stylized portraits of animals with his familiar touch of humour.

According to the artist himself, what is most interesting about capturing children’s stories in lively, colourful images is that he gets to experiment in combining imaginative ideas and realistic details. When he sets out to illustrate a story he begins by sketching a character, a process that he describes as similar to casting the right actor for the intended role. For Tim, every completed project means a positive message or an inspiration shared with a young audience of keen readers and viewers, the knowledge of which keeps him passionate about his work.

Playful and sweet-natured, Tim Bowers’ Merrymakers images illustrate one of the best things about childhood – the times when one can forget about everything while engrossed in a game or other fun activity. The charming characters featured on our Your Move cover remind us to look for good humour and cheer the company of good friends. And the message we want to dispatch with our Merrymakers series of covers is that wholehearted play is not age-restricted – so go on and have some fun!