Neely Daggett is an award-winning children’s book illustrator based in Portland, Oregon, who loves creating heartfelt stories and adorable characters — especially kids! Since the release of her debut picture book, The White House Cat by Cylin Busby, Neely has illustrated multiple books and is known for her warm, expressive artwork filled with charm, humor, and heart.

In addition to illustrating children’s books, Neely also works as a graphic designer. She has a B.A. in psychology from the University of Illinois at Chicago and a degree in graphic design from the Art Institute of Colorado — backgrounds that continue to influence her thoughtful, character-driven approach to illustration.

Off the Page

I’ve always loved sports and the sense of teamwork, discipline, and resilience they inspire. I was an active kid and multi-sport athlete growing up, and I still enjoy playing and coaching sports today. The lessons I learned through athletics continue to shape me as an artist — from staying dedicated through long projects to embracing creativity, collaboration, and growth.

More Fun Facts!

I’m primarily a digital artist and create all my artwork using Photoshop and the Adobe Creative Cloud.

I’m a mom to three beautiful, busy kids! Here is my daughter, Zadie, with my book, The White House Cat, at Powell’s Books in Portland, OR.

My garden is my happy place — a constant source of joy and creative inspiration. These peonies are some of my favorite flowers to grow and one of the highlights of my garden each year.

Let’s work together!

I’m a proud member of Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators and highly recommend it as a valuable resource and supportive community for aspiring illustrators.

I’m also represented by the lovely Jen Rofe of the Andrea Brown Literary Agency.

For publishing projects, please contact Jen Rofe at jennifer@andreabrownlit.com

What People Are Saying

“When we asked Neely to illustrate THE WHITE HOUSE CAT, I knew it was a tall order – a book that required accuracy and charm and humor – and on a crash schedule, to boot. Yet Neely delivered all of this and more, with immense creativity, skill, and grace. She was an absolute joy to work with and look forward to our next collaboration!”

— Donna Bray, Balzer & Bray

“Neely is a pleasure to work with! Aside from her work being absolutely adorable, she is very receptive to feedback and follows art direction well. She even went above and beyond in the early stages of our project by providing us with different character style options, which was instrumental in deciding the final direction of the book. We couldn’t be happier with her work with us!”

— Kaley McCabe, Silver Dolphin Books

Client List: Feiwel and Friends, HarperCollins, Scholastic, Workman Publishing, Sourcebook Kids, Albert Whitman, Silver Dolphin, Feeding Minds Press, Cricket Media, Curriculum Associates, and other wonderful folks.

Middle Grade:

  • The Unicorns of Sparkle Valley (Scholastic UK) Spring 2025

Picture Books:

  • The Soil in Jackie’s Garden (Feeding Minds Press) Spring 2024

  • My First Brain Quest: Feelings (Workman Publishing) Fall 2023

  • All the Things You Will Do (Scholastic UK) April 2023

  • The Supreme Court and Us (Albert Whitman & Co) Spring 2022

  • Goodnight to your Fantastic Elastic Brain (Sourcebooks Kids) Spring 2022

  • The White House Cat (Balzer + Bray) January 2022

  • Baby Ballers: Michael Jordan (Silver Dolphin Books) September 2021

Publications:

  • Ask Magazine (Who Needs a Referee?) February 2021