Back to News

Astound HeARTIST Khoa Le Wins Big!

Published on 09/06/2021

This month we are delighted to announce that ‘Sugar in Milk’ has won the Ohioana Book Award for Best Juvenile Literature!

Written by the best-selling author Thrity Umrigar and illustrated by talented Astound artist Khoa Le, the picture book captures the sense of hope and perseverance underpinning the immigrant experience.

Through a mix of ancient myths with modern-day experiences of immigration, Khoa Le and Thrity Umrigar have created a stunning and memorable book for generations to come.

A huge thanks to the Ohioana Book Award and its judges for this recognition. This year’s award falls on the 80th birthday of the Ohioana Book Award and at Astound we couldn’t be more grateful to be part of its great legacy.

‘Sugar in Milk’ is published by Running Press Kids, Hachette Book Group and is available for purchase here.

Other News

Why Every Illustrator Portfolio Needs a Stand-Out Character (Yes, Even Yours)

When you’re thinking about our favourite stories as a child, we often think about the narrative, the themes, perhaps a particular quote that stood out, but the most memorable elements are always the characters. The reason the characters always stay in our minds is because they are the gateway to the narrative, and all of…

Trend Watch: YA Illustrated Covers

  Over the past few years, illustrated covers have become a defining visual language in the Young Adult (YA) and New Adult (NA) book market. And no, this isn’t just a passing trend—it’s a design evolution powered by the viral force of #BookTok, #bookgirlies, and a growing appetite for genre-fluid storytelling. Hear what’s driving the…

Trend Watch: The Graphic Novel Boom

Every week we’ll be featuring a new article over on LinkedIn, in our new trend watch series! Graphic novels are having a moment—and it’s no passing trend. From classrooms to bestseller lists, graphic novels are dominating shelves and reading time across all ages. What was once seen as a niche format with a distinct, heavy-lined “comic book”…

Bologna 2025: A Week of Connection

By: Vicky Patoulioti, Talent Source Manager, ITSme This year’s Bologna Children’s Book Fair was one to remember. From early mornings to late evenings, our team Vicky, Bhavi, Ed, and Emily — were on the ground offering free portfolio reviews to artists from all over the world. Mornings kicked off with pre-scheduled reviews, while in the…

How to Beat AI and Catch the Client’s Eye

Illustration by Camipepe By: Edward Burns, CEO, ITSme As AI art tools become more sophisticated, it becomes more important to emphasize our value and status as authentic human artists. Crafting a great bio and portfolio is an excellent way to make an immediate impact. They should allow the client to get to know you in…

Be A Pro at Curating Your Portfolio!

You asked, and we listened! Be A Pro at Curating Your Portfolio; our new course is here! Learn all the secrets to crafting a standout portfolio with 4 Hours of Expert-Led Content! One of the biggest challenges you face in your illustration career is presenting your work in a way that catches the eye of…

Menu