FAQ

What do you draw with?

I’m all about using whatever’s nearby and accessible, but I tend to keep at least a few of these around: Micron Pens, Pentalic graphite, Wacom Intuos 4 tablet, Akashiya brush pens.

What books have you made?

I have made 18 books. The newest is an activity book, where each page is a different comic that the reader has to complete in a different way. It’s called Let’s Make Comics, and it debuted at #1 on Amazon in 4 categories.

Are you a professional?

Yep! I graduated with a BFA in Illustration and Design in 2008, and my work has been published in dozens of books, magazines, and websites across the globe.

Do you suffer from undiagnosed debilitating pain that keeps you in bed all day and using a walker or a cane when you visit the doctor?

As a matter of fact, I do.

How do you get published?

Most publishers have a “submission” section on their website, where you can find their submission guidelines. Some want complete manuscripts, others want a writing sample and synopsis, while others just want a selection of finished pages. Find out which publishers are putting out books that are similar to yours and get in touch with them. Self-publishing is also an option.

Will you visit my school/library/bookstore?

Yes—but it’ll have to wait until my health improves.

What are you working on now?

Right now I’m drawing myself crazy, making art for games, books, graphic novels, and I’m writing some long-form fiction and non-fiction (which I’m completely freaking out about).

5 Comments Add yours

  1. Dianna Carroll says:

    How do we sign up for the Comics Workshop this summer?

    Like

    1. Jess Smart Smiley says:

      Hi Dianna! Registration for the Comics Workshop is now available via the Higher Ground website (https://continue.utah.edu/youth/class/yeart_319_a_graphic_novel_this_way_comes_age_13_18). The fun begins on June 9! Let me know if you have any other questions.

      Like

  2. Victoria says:

    Hey 👋🏼
    umm I’m trying to find a copy of Rumpus on the run but no luck so far.
    I’m in the U.K. looking for any pointers as to where a v.g.condition/new copy could be purchased? 🤞🏼

    Like

    1. Hi Victoria! I might have a few new copies in my warehouse. You can message me at jess.smiley@gmail.com to set up shipping.

      Like

      1. Victoria says:

        Hey🤓
        Email sent ( might be in junk).

        Like

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