Current Project
Projected Title: The Day The Internet Died
Format: Illustrated Children’s Book
Medium: Traditional Watercolor and Graphite
Target Audience: Ages 6-10
Project Description:
The Day the Internet Died is a humorous and heartwarming picture book by M. Chad Randall. This Day the Internet Died picture book explores what happens when screens go dark and imagination takes over. The Day the Internet Died takes young readers on a whimsical and heartfelt journey through imagination, friendship, and the rediscovery of real-world wonder. The story structure recalls books like Harold and the Purple Crayon, which celebrate imagination and independent play.
Detail From Crossing the Lava
Watercolor and Graphite on Paper
The story follows Max, James, Emma, and their Westie dog as their digital lives come to a sudden halt. In the quiet space left behind, they begin to re-imagine their world—diving into pillow-fort kingdoms, lava-filled living rooms, pirate ship adventures, and starlit storytelling by flashlight. Each scene celebrates creativity, collaboration, and the joy of making something out of nothing.
“Fire! Fire!” Max shouted at the same time.
Emma took aim. “Boom! Boom!” she yelled.
Then she leaped into the air and shouted louder than before—
“BOOM!!! Look! I blew up their ship!”All three children started jumping up and down.
“Way to go, Mr. Emma!” Max cheered.
“I’m not a Mr.!” Emma yelled back.
Excerpt from The Day the internet Died
Inspired by the rhythms of a read-aloud story and the structure of visual duality, each spread alternates between the real world and the kids’ imaginative one—inviting readers to compare what is lost and what is found when screens go dark. Themes of screen fatigue, rediscovery, and emotional connection are interwoven with humor and warmth.
The illustrations for The Day the Internet Died are painted in soft, expressive watercolor with light pencil texture and warm digital glazes. Visual compositions are guided by the golden ratio and framed with gentle chaos—mirroring the contrast between structured digital life and spontaneous play. The spreads are richly detailed, rewarding rereading and visual exploration.
This project offers both kids and parents a hopeful pause, encouraging mindful screen habits and joyful alternatives. It is a tribute to the enduring magic of unplugged play and the hidden worlds waiting just beyond the glow of a screen.
Crossing the Lava
Interested in Collaborating?
M. Chad Randall is available for partnerships with writers, publishers, and editors who value timeless, story-driven illustration. He’d love to bring your next project to life.