Christine Beck, Illustrator

Where are you from?

Idaho Falls, Idaho

What are some of your hobbies?

I like to sew and create fun activities for my grandkids, painting with watercolors, creating useful items, and finding new recipes that can become family favorites.

What were you like when you were growing up?

I liked to be active, especially doing outside activities such as creating a play house, riding my bike, and catching frogs. My best playmate was usually my sister, as we spent a lot of time playing together.

When did you first realize you wanted to be an illustrator?

When I was in high school and thinking about a career. I've always enjoyed how pictures in books tell a story.

What techniques did you use to design this book?

I used colored pencils. Most of my experience has been with graphite pencil. I wanted to add color to the story pictures, but I was unfamiliar with using colored pencils. Illustrating the story was a learning process for me.

What is your favorite childhood book?

Mother Goose and More Poems to Read to the Very Young

What is your favorite potato recipe?

Potato Pancakes

2 cups grated baked potatoes

3 eggs

1 1/2 tablespoons flour

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp onion powder

In medium bowl, add flour, salt, and onion powder to grated potatoes; mix thoroughly. Stir in eggs until evenly moist. Brown in oil on medium heat until crisp.