A Little Stranger: From Story to Song and Beyond

When I first began working on A Little Stranger, it wasn’t a song at all. It was meant to be an adult illustrated short story, a dark fable about a mysterious woman walking through a small town at night. The townspeople watch her, whisper about her, and grow uneasy at her silence. Slowly, the truth begins to slip through the cracks—perhaps the real monsters aren’t the strangers we fear, but the “normal” faces that hide in plain sight.

The story was written. The images were clear in my mind. But life has a way of rerouting our plans. I don’t have the ability to draw the way I used to, and the project shifted into music. From that change, the song A Little Stranger was born. To my surprise, it came out in a way that I truly love—haunting, powerful, and carrying the same atmosphere I had once imagined in pen and ink.

Still, the pull of the original idea hasn’t left me. Every time I look at the cover art (the image you see here), I can almost see the rest of the story playing out in that style—rain-slicked streets, blurred silhouettes, and a hooded figure who is both ordinary and extraordinary.

Looking for a Way Forward

This is where I reach out to you, my readers. I would love to make A Little Stranger into the illustrated book it was always meant to be. However, with my drawing hand issues, the challenge is real. I’ve tried a few tools and styles, but nothing feels quite like what I see in my head.

So I ask:

• Has anyone out there worked with illustration tools or methods that might help someone who can’t draw the way they once could?

• Do you know of ways to translate a specific style (like the cover) into a whole series of images, keeping consistency across pages?

• Or perhaps, do you know an illustrator who thrives in this kind of dark, cinematic style and might be open to collaboration?

  
  

The Essence of the Story

For me, A Little Stranger is more than just a song or a story—it’s a reflection of how fear and suspicion often reveal more about us than the things we’re afraid of. The stranger in the red hood was never the monster. The real question was always: who was?

That’s a message I still feel deeply, and one I’d love to bring to life not only in sound but also in ink and image.

The Journey Ahead

As I embark on this journey to transform A Little Stranger into an illustrated book, I realize the importance of collaboration. The right illustrator can breathe life into the story, capturing its essence in ways I can only dream of.

Illustration is not just about drawing; it’s about storytelling. Each image should evoke emotion, draw the reader in, and enhance the narrative. I envision pages filled with shadows and light, where the atmosphere of the song translates into visuals that resonate with readers.

Seeking Inspiration

Inspiration can come from many places. I’ve been exploring various styles and artists, looking for that spark that will ignite this project. Whether it’s through online platforms, art communities, or local galleries, I’m on the hunt for creativity that aligns with my vision.

If you have any suggestions or know of artists who specialize in dark, atmospheric illustrations, please share. Your insights could help shape the future of this project.

Connecting with the Community

I believe in the power of community. Sharing ideas and resources can lead to amazing collaborations. If you’ve faced similar challenges or have successfully transitioned a story into illustrations, your experience could be invaluable.

Let’s connect. You can reply here or reach out directly. Your thoughts and suggestions mean a lot to me.

The Ongoing Story

Until then, the stranger keeps walking. The journey of A Little Stranger is far from over. With your help, I hope to turn this vision into reality. Together, we can create something that resonates deeply with those who encounter it.

Thank you for being part of this adventure. I look forward to hearing from you!