Hector Fox and the Giant Quest

Astrid Sheckels cannot remember a time when she was not telling or illustrating stories, especially ones involving imaginary animals. A native of western Massachusetts and growing up in an artistic family, Astrid spent her childhood playing outside, using her imagination, and drawing. Her Scandinavian roots are evident in her artwork, which she describes as a “mix of classic realism and whimsy.” She studied Fine Art at Greenfield Community College and works as a full-time artist. She is a member of the Western Massachusetts Illustrators Guild and The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators.
 
Astrid is the author/illustrator of “Hector Fox and the Giant Quest”, the first book in the whimsical Hector Fox series. Her debut as an author/illustrator is the award-winning "Nic and Nellie" (2013). As an illustrator, her other award-winning Islandport Press titles are "The Scallop Christmas" (Freeburg, 2009) and "The Fish House Door" (Baldwin, 2010).

Author photo by Elizabeth Joy Saunders.

Sheckels’ watercolor and oil paintings bring the story alive with a style that the artist calls “a mix of classic realism and whimsy." - Steve Pharrars, Daily Hampshire Gazette

Astrid Sheckels is a picture book illustrator to watch! Her classic style won my heart right out of the gate. There’s a lot to look at and love in this sweet story.— Sarah Mackenzie, Read-Aloud Revival Podcast

When it comes to kids’ books, it’s hard to go wrong with anthropomorphic animals. Couple that with some lustrous illustrations of woods and fields, add in an adventure, and you’ve got a potential winner.—Steve Pharrars, the Greenfield Recorder

Intricate color illustrations add detail and whimsy to an excellent tale.—Bill Bushnell, centralmaine.com

With lessons of perseverance, the power of imagination, and the joy of friendship, this book hearkens back to a simpler time and is a wonderful read for children of all ages! —Kristin J., Reviewer, NetGalley.com

The gorgeous illustrations in this children's book took me back to being a young child . . . Just looking at the pages is a feast . . . Add in the story itself, which promotes a love of stories and the adventures they can take us on, and I am hooked.  I can't wait to share it with all the little people in my life. —Tina B., Educator, NetGalley.com