Behind the Book: Main Street, illustrated by David Wilkerson

We caught up with David Wilkerson to chat about his experience illustrating his latest title, Main Steet: A Community Story about Redlining. The story follows a young girl named Olivia who learns how the history of redlining has affected her neighborhood for generations.

Main Street was written by Britt Hawthorne, and Tiffany Jewell, and published by Penguin US / Kokila. Available now!

What first drew you to Main Street, and what made you want to be part of this project as the illustrator?

A few days before receiving the Main Street manuscript for the first time, I watched a documentary about redlining in Los Angeles. That documentary deeply shaped my approach to illustrating the story. The warmth and clarity of Britt Hawthorne and Tiffany Jewell’s writing made it clear that Main Street was a project grounded in care and truth, and wanted each illustration to reflect those qualities.

This story tackles the complex topic of redlining for a young audience. How did you approach translating such a serious subject into illustrations that feel accessible and age-appropriate?

A complex topic like redlining has to be centered around care and connection. Focusing on the system that created these conditions can lead to frustration, so I found it more conducive to focus on the people living within it. When illustrating, I was able to lean into the resilience of the community around Main Street. The way families support one another, neighbors interact, and an entire community shows up with warmth and understanding.

Were there any spreads or scenes that felt particularly challenging or especially meaningful to illustrate?
Illustrating the moment when Alison tells Olivia that “Main Street isn’t safe,” and capturing Olivia’s shaken reaction while her friends remain oblivious to her distress, was particularly challenging. That contrast between what Olivia understands and what others don’t; felt important to convey visually and emotionally. The spreads of Olivia and her mom in the car, leading up to Olivia and Ms. Effie’s comforting hug, were some of the most meaningful for me to illustrate. Seeing the wave of discouragement that once weighed on Olivia slowly lifted through care and tenderness was deeply satisfying.

What do you hope young readers notice or feel when they spend time with the illustrations in Main Street?
Aside from the artistic style, I want readers to feel how warmth creates safety and belonging. As well as how being supported by trusted adults can help young people make sense of difficult realities without losing hope. The illustrations reinforce the idea that community is not just a place, but something nurtured through care and connection.

What advice would you give to illustrators who want to work on books that explore social justice themes with care and impact?
From an illustration standpoint, approach the work with humility and responsibility. Ask yourself what the images are offering emotionally, not just visually. Be intentional. Do the research, but also focus on the people and relationships at the heart of the story. I think you’ll be successful as long as those points are at the forefront.

Finally, what excites you most about Main Street now that it’s heading into the hands of readers?
With Main Street being the first children’s picture book to directly address redlining, I’m excited for young readers to see their communities represented with sincerity. For families and classrooms to discuss Main Street in depth. As well as for readers to see this story for the valuable resource that it is. If the illustrations help children feel a sense of belonging and curiosity about their own neighborhoods, then the book has done something truly special.

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To work with David, get in touch and we will direct you to the relevant agent. To view more of David’s work, click here.