About Me
Kristina’s childhood was spent taking care of her zoo of stuffed animals while dressing up in fancy clothes for tea parties with her dolls. When she wasn’t playing, you’d probably find her drawing, coloring or engaged in a craft project. Her lively imagination kept her busy and led her to write and illustrate stories from a young age.
She went on to become a teacher but always knew what she really wanted to do - be an illustrator. Having helped struggling readers Kristina brings a unique perspective to writing and illustrating. She understands how children learn and how the images can support young readers while helping them learn about the world around them.
An active member of her chapter of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, she has attended many conferences, taken illustration courses and has worked with a mentor. She has had various leadership roles within her regional group and recently became the Illustrator Coordinator. Through this role, she hopes to connect members and build a supportive community of creatives. Many people have helped Kristina on her path and she loves helping others learn about the industry.
Kristina is a PAL member and has illustrated 10 books. She has also created images for magazines. Having self-published two books, she has mentored other authors with goals to self-publish.
Kristina lives in Cleveland, Ohio with her witty husband, two sweet girls and her snuggly pup, Penny. When she is not illustrating you will find her gardening, playing the piano, or crocheting. If you're lucky you might find her singing karaoke with her dad.
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Artwork used for the 2022 SCBWI Ohio North Conference Art
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Spiros the Soup-Eating Dinosaur chosen for the Story Walk at the Richfield Library, May 2022
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Best of Inktober 2021, Day 10 Pick, https://www.xquissive.com/best-of-inktober-2021/
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Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators (SCBWI), People's Choice Award, Ohio North Conference, 2020
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Logo Contest Winner, Saint Paul Greek Orthodox Church, 2016
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Art Selected for Akron Children's Hospital Art Collection, 1999
Media
The Papas Post - Spiros the Soup Eating Dinosaur
Spiros the Soup-Eating Dinosaur Story Walk
Akron Beacon Journal article about Spiros the Soup-Eating Dinosaur