I created the illustrations for a children’s book about the healing power of poke and faith. This book follows the story of Waianae Jackson, named after the city of the target demographic for this book, as he utilizes the power of food and faith to help restore the health of his ailing peer. I deeply connected with the local Hawaiian community, immersing myself in their rich culture and values. This project allowed me to not only learn about the significance of poke but also the Aloha spirit—an ethos of love, compassion, and support that permeates Hawaiian life. Through conversations with local business owners, community members, and children, I gained valuable insights into the meaning of family and community, observing how people show up for one another in times of need.
To effectively illustrate the book, I conducted extensive research aimed at understanding the needs and interests of my target demographic: grade school children and their parents. This involved engaging in focus groups, where I observed children’s reactions to various storylines and illustrations, and conducting surveys to gather feedback on themes that resonate with families. I also explored existing literature for this age group, analyzing what captivates young readers and fosters a love for storytelling. This research was crucial in ensuring that the book would not only be educational but also engaging and relatable for its audience.
A key part of my role involved selecting local poke spots that would be ideal for carrying the book and pitching this idea to them. Through this process, I learned valuable lessons in collaboration and entrepreneurship, understanding the importance of aligning with local businesses that share a vision of community support. I also gained insight into effective marketing strategies and the significance of building relationships within the community, which can enhance both the book’s reach and its impact.
