Pesky Plover Services

Pesky Plover Services

Pesky Plover Studio is a soft place to land for storytellers.

Whether you’ve got a manuscript in need of a loving overhaul, a storybook ready to find its visual identity, or even just a bothersome character who won’t stop talking, I’m here to help you wrangle your wild ideas into something wonderful.

Editing Services

  • You’ve written the thing… now what?!

    I offer collaborative editing that helps you shape your words without losing your voice. I work with children’s books, fiction, memoir and creative nonfiction.

    From untangling a tricky plot, to making sure your grammar is on point, I’m here to help your book feel clear, cohesive and compelling.

    Services include:

    • Manuscript assessments

    • Structural and developmental editing

    • Line editing and copyediting

    • Proofreading for print-ready files

  • Prices start from $0.01 per word for proofreading, and $0.02 per word for editing. Get in touch today for a personalised quote.

Illustration Services

  • Whether it’s a cheeky chicken, an anxious platypus or a curious child, I specialise in creating characterful illustrations that feel a little bit magic.

    I work digitally with my iPad and Procreate, but my focus is always bringing a hand-drawn feel to every illustration.

    Includes:

    • Character development

    • Storyboarding

    • Full-page illustrations & spot art/vignettes

    • Picture book packages (illustration + layout)

  • Prices start from $85.00 per page and will depend on the style and complexity chosen. Get in touch today for a personalised quote.

Formatting & Book Design

  • Great design lets your words shine.

    I create cover designs and internal layouts that keep your story at the forefront and appeal to your ideal reader.

    Whether you’re self-publishing or prepping a pitch for a publisher, I can help with:

    • Custom cover design

    • Typesetting & formatting

    • Picture book layout

    • Accessibility

    • Print & ebook file prep

  • Prices start from $200 - combine with editing or illustrating for a package price! Get in touch today for a personalised quote.

FAQs

  • Every project is unique, so I’ll send you a customised quote tailored to your specific needs and timeline. That said, I always strive to maintain transparency, flexibility, and fairness, with clear payment schedules and no unexpected costs.

  • Nope! While I love working on picture books, I also edit and design for adult fiction, poetry and creative non-fiction. If it’s heartfelt, thoughtful, or slightly chaotic in the best way, I’m probably into it.

  • My illustration style is quirky, colourful and a little chaotic. All the best things are, right?

    I love drawing animals, children, and slightly odd little creatures with big personalities.

    Most of my work is created digitally using Procreate and an iPad, which means I can play with colour, texture and layout more freely (and make changes quickly when needed). Even though it’s digital, I aim to keep a hand-drawn warmth in everything I create. You won’t find anything glossy or generic here.

    If you have a particular look or feel in mind, I’m always happy to chat about how we can bring your vision to life.

  • As early as you can! I only take on a limited number of projects each month to ensure each one receives the attention it deserves. If you’ve got a launch date or deadline in mind, let me know when you enquire, and we’ll figure out what’s possible.

  • Not at all! In fact, some of my favourite projects have been with first-time authors. You don’t need a publisher, a polished manuscript, or a clue what you’re doing, just a story that matters to you and a willingness to bring it to life.

    I’ll guide you through the process, explain what happens when (without overwhelming you), and make sure your creative voice stays at the heart of it all.

  • Yes! If you’re after a one-stop creative studio that can illustrate your book and lay it out beautifully, you’re in the right place. I can also collaborate with other illustrators or designers if you already have someone on board.

  • Absolutely. Pesky Plover Studio was built with brains like ours in mind. I’m neurodivergent too, and I know that things like communication style, processing time and creative energy can ebb and flow. This is a shame-free zone. You can read more about how I work with neurodivergent creatives here.

Let’s hatch something together

Whether you’re ready to dive into a project or just dipping your toes in the birdbath, I’d love to hear from you. Fill in as much or as little as feels right.

I'll get back to you as soon as I can (usually within 2–3 business days).