Inkygoodness: 2015 Round-Up | Part 2
With many publishing houses fully embracing the challenge of championing titles that not only feature extraordinary content, but also stand out as covetable objects, 2015 has been a brilliant year for illustrated books.
Here’s our run down of some of the best in show..
Picture Book | Imelda and The Goblin King by Briony May Smith
A category bursting with new titles (largely published by the frequently impressive Flying Eye Books), our favourite picture book was not an easy one to pick but Briony May Smiths’ Imelda and the Goblin King stood out from the crowd.
Mixing textural illustrations with an adventurous story, Briony has created a rustic fairytale with traditional charm and contemporary style – designed for young readers.
Coffee Table Book | People of Print
People of Print’s self-titled book packs in over 300 pages of print, with works from an international rosta of illustrators, studios, collectives, publications and galleries designed to showcase the power of print on a global scale. People of Print also features an intricate cover illustration by LE GUN.
Graphic Novel | Friends by Jan Soeken
Published by Centrala, Friends by Jan Soeken is our favourite and definitely the oddest graphic novel of 2015. The absurd story follows two German police officers as they – in a naive and ill-fated attempt to meet women – join the Klu Klux Klan.
Interiors Book | The New Bohemians By Justina Blakeney
For those of you wanting to spruce up your home in time for 2016, blogger Justina Blakeney has all the answers with her debut interiors books The New Bohemians. Filled with heart, soul, craft and creativity, this Boho-bible will teach you what type of bohemian you are and how to nurture your style to create a home as beautiful as those showcased within it’s pages.
Colouring Book | Jungle Paradise by Lorna Scobie
In another increasingly popular market, Lorna Scobie manages to stand out from the crowd with some unique touches. Not only is her a book illustrated in a playful, personality-filled way but added touches such as white space for your own jungle detail and a handful of motivational quotes dispersed throughout transform it from a simple colouring book to a therapeutic, creative and uplifting experience
Earlier in the year, we chatted with Lorna about her new book and career so far. Read the full interview here.
Unorthodox Book | Up My Street by Louise Lockhart
Finally, our pick of our favourite book which creates a whole new genre for itself is Louise Lockhart’s Up My Street. Her colourful accordion book celebrates Britain’s forgotten high street stores. Since being published, one of the shops featured in the title has closed but it is wonderful to think that they are all preserved forever in this heartwarmingly-nostalgic title.