I’m Tara, a children's book illustrator seeking representation.

Meg Cabot was the keynote speaker at my first SCBWI conference. She asked attendees to answer the question, “Why do you want to create for children's literature?" My immediate response was "I want to be part of the reason the reader turns the page." 

Now, the world asks creators why and who we create art for, and what makes us different from everyone else? My why — creating art is part of who I am. I’ve been creating art since Captain Kangaroo shared stories about a magical purple crayon. My who — I create illustrations for kids who like me at their age, are awkward but want to be seen; for those who stand alone in the crowd, reading the room and looking for a safe connection. What sets me apart — my work is inspired by how kids learn differently and experience big emotions.

I want to support authors' words and one day create my own books. I’d like to partner with an agent who’s looking for an illustrator of chapter books and picture books for readers of all ages — because children's literature is for everyone. 

I have additional samples and dummy projects if you want to see more of my work.

Email me at TaraMSantoro13@outlook.com with any inquiries.

Feature on 6 ABC News Philadelphia https://6abc.com/paint-a-hydrant-fire-art-community/10964323/
Online Features
Eastern PennPoints's “50 Years of Earth Day Celebration” Feature:
https://easternpennpoints.wordpress.com/2020/04/22/celebrating-50-years-of-earth-day-sneak-a-snack-by-tara-santoro/

EasternPennPoints’s #LoveMadeVisible Feature: https://easternpennpoints.wordpress.com/2019/02/16/lovemadevisible-the-bond-by-tara-santoro/#comments

EasternPennPoints’s #Vacation Feature:
https://easternpennpoints.wordpress.com/2019/07/25/vacation-frogs-only-by-tara-santoro/

I am all about birthdays. Why, because that’s the one day out of the year all about you. As for me sometimes it’s also about Easter or Good Friday or Holy Thursday or Easter Monday.