ThisKateCreates ThisKateCreates
31 Jan 2019, 15:29

Hmmm. I think Ness is right but also I think I would do it if I were in your shoes. Risk reward type thing. Especially if 25% is higher than average royalty.
If you have a little time before the signed contract needs returning could you low key chat with a few of their other illustrators / other illustrators in your region?
I don't know how etiquette works in Sweden, but if it is acceptable maybe go back and say something like:
"I'm really excited about this. I feel like this will be a great opportunity because of how well my style fits this story and I love the manuscript. Would it be alright if I talked to one or two of your other illustrators?"
Or, what I would probably do, see if you can make contact with a few people who you see have recently published a book with them. Find a polite way to email them and do a gather information. Just make sure you do so in a way the publisher won't think you're discontent or making trouble.
I've gotten really good information from people by asking something like if they have time for maybe ten minutes (if you think they are busy especially keep it super short and stick to the time limit) to talk about working with publisher X . If they say yes ask when is convenient (or if they prefer email), call, ask a few open ended questions, thank them profusely, and make sure to let them go when you said they would ( or keep it short if you use email). Then send a thank you note and depending on regional etiquette maybe a token gift after. Everyone in both USA and New Zealand acted like the thank you note part was weird but also looked really pleased to get one. A little piece of art and a note would be good maybe?
Again, don't know Swedish etiquette. I think Americans you have to be super sweet but also directly ask. It's a big time investment though, so the risk of a few emails or phone calls is small, eh?
Good luck! I hope it's a great project for you!