How Important is Illustration in Children’s Books?

As someone working on my first children’s book, I’ve been learning just how big a role illustrations play in the storytelling process. For younger readers, visuals often communicate emotions, plot details, and even moral lessons in ways words alone can’t. A great children’s book illustrator doesn’t just draw pretty pictures—they create an entire visual world that makes the story memorable and relatable. I’m curious to hear from other authors, parents, and illustrators here: Do you think the style of illustration affects how well children engage with a story? Are there certain color palettes or drawing styles you’ve found work best for specific age groups? For self-publishers, what tips do you have for finding and working with the right illustrator? Would love to hear your experiences, recommendations, and maybe even see some samples of your favorite illustrated books.