In Stitches
April 18, 2011
It may be a bit unfair to introduce something so wonderful yet isn’t available until October (2011) but these Penguin Threads editions by artist Jillian Tamaki are so spring-like and pretty that a sunny day like today seemed a good time to share. Mention of Penguin books may well bring to your mind those Creamsicle orange covers of the classics, dog-eared and tea stained from your high school or university Literature classes but things have changed; Penguin is now responsible for some of the most creative and beautiful books available on the shelf. This particular series within the Penguin Classics Deluxe Editions features not only three long adored stories but also the impressive artistic talent of Jillian Tamaki. Each cover in the series is embossed to highlight the texture of the artist’s original needlework. Be sure to visit Jillian’s website here where you can learn more about her and see her at work on the stitching with her colourful threads.
Each book is paperbound with French Flaps – those nice crisp paperback editions which include tucked in flaps with information about the story, the author and often reviews just like we enjoy with a hardcover edition. Individually, or as a special grouping, they will bring a little pizazz to your bookshelf or your gift giving. Move over boring old-fashioned textbook Penguins, there are some new threads in town.
Books of our Youth
November 6, 2010
I was out shopping this week for my very special niece’s birthday. Predictable, I know, but I ended up in the bookstore. I have so many great memories of books I read in my youth that I savour still and was inspired to share some with her as she’s been a good little reader from an early age. A quick survey with some friends today revealed that I’m not the only one with precious memories of books we read long ago – what a fun conversation we had! My shopping excursion ended up with a classic favourite (Heidi) and I resisted (strongly) the popular, modern books covered in bubblegum pink with generous sprays of metallic stars. Perhaps the flashy new stories would be more appealing these days but I’m an old school Auntie and trust the stories that captivated us all those years ago will resonate just as strongly today. What are your thoughts? Are there any new books you think will stand the test of time? Feel free to share your nostalgic favourites too!
My all time favourites from the day:
