Opening Spread

When I get a new project to work on, I don't generally work through the spreads in order, but start at the bit that interests me most. Then I come back to the opening spread later. This is handy: I've had a chance to get to know the characters and their space by then, and the opening is of course an especially important spread.

Bears on the Stairs only actually mentions the bears and the child at this stage, but I thought it important for both Mum and Dad to be there, so we are set up.

I wanted the child to look reluctant and a little anxious, but not too frightened for this opener:

I've tried to make the room 'real', so casual and slightly messy, but not the total chaos that I know reigns in the houses of many of my friends with littluns, as we don't want to detract from the main thrust.

You might think I've decided not to draw the bears yet, but if you look closely, the foot of the little bear is just visible through the open door:



I thought that would amuse the readers, as they can spot that he's there before anyone else!