Book Illustration
"Letters to my Therapist: Letters I Wrote, but Never Sent, my Therapist" is a narrative of the therapeutic healing process, told through a collection of poems and letters. Author Louisa Merryn tells her story of life and healing from trauma, in and between therapy sessions.
The book contains more than 90 poems that invite readers into the mind of a human recovering from trauma in a non-linear, sometimes hard, sometimes humorous, and sometimes healing journey. It offers real, raw, and relatable moments for anyone in, or considering, the therapy process and wanting access to authentic reflections on the path to reaching their higher self.
I served as illustrator for the complete book, creating the cover design and 50+ interior illustrations throughout the collection. Working closely with author Louisa Merryn, I developed a cohesive visual language that complemented the vulnerable, introspective nature of the poetry without overwhelming the words.
Each illustration needed to provide visual breathing space while honoring the emotional weight of the content—balancing delicacy with strength, reflecting the complex journey of healing and self-discovery.
Using hand-drawn line illustrations, I developed a visual language that feels intimate and organic—as if drawn during quiet moments of reflection.
The illustrations feature:
Flowing, organic line work suggesting growth and movement
Botanical and natural motifs representing healing and renewal
Female figures and hands symbolizing vulnerability and strength
Celestial elements (stars, waves) reflecting the book's poetic themes
Subtle, contemplative imagery that supports rather than distracts from the poetry
The cover design features a striking illustration of a figure surrounded by waves, creating a sense of both being held and floating—capturing the duality of the therapeutic journey. The deep blue color palette evokes both night-time introspection and oceanic depth, while gold/cream accents add warmth and hope.
