#006 Summer Reading
Summer holidays are here and it's a good time to read so I'm writing about books that I have enjoyed and keep coming back to. Reading is a big part of my practice as an illustrator.
Hello. I’ve always been a bookworm who amasses big piles of books to read, but it’s only in the last year that I’ve realised how closely linked my reading practice is to my creativity. I’m really enjoying exploring the book list for each module on my MA in Children’s Book Illustration at Cambridge School of Art and it’s from these books, and from reading widely beyond the field of illustration, that I’m seeing how inspired I feel when I read every day. When I’m reading, I have more energy and more ideas. Here are some books I have read in the last year which I’ve really enjoyed and keep returning to.
Reading about storytelling
George Saunders looks at seven short stories by famous Russian writers such as Chekhov and Tolstoy, and explores their narrative structure, characterisation and how they engage a reader. I don’t usually read short stories but I really enjoyed the structure of reading them and then reading the analysis; It felt like being back at a university seminar and it was really interesting to consider what makes storytelling great.
Inspiration to keep drawing in your sketchbook
This is a beautiful book which explores the importance of drawing and using a sketchbook. It gives such a fascinating insight into the sketchbooks and practices of a wide variety of illustrators. Definitely one that I keep returning to.
A big hug from a book
This book gave me such a boost when I read it. It covers imposter syndrome, fear of the blank page, dealing with doubt and many other creative worries in a very accessible and humorous way. I don’t think I realised how common a lot of these feelings are until I read this book. It has lots of illustrations and examples and was so easy to read.
When you’re feeling overwhelmed
This book is part philosophy and part psychology and it considers how people could spend the 4,000 weeks they have, on average, on Earth. Thank you Jenny MacKendrick for this recommendation - it has dramatically changed how I feel about my ‘To do’ list!
Exploring sequence
This book really helped my understanding of sequence and narrative. It is written as a comic and looks in depth at different types of sequence, the mechanics of sequence and explores visual literacy. It has had such an impact on how I use narrative sequences in my sketchbook. I’ve read Scott McCloud’s Making Comics too and it is also great.
Mid-century joy!
I am a huge fan of graphic design and anything mid-century so this book is a gem. It explores a wide range of fields: record sleeves, typography, book covers, travel posters and illustration. It is so interesting to see how these iconic designs continue to influence today.
Encouragement to draw every day
This book is so inspiring. It is filled with a selection of drawings made by Quentin Blake in one year and it is so interesting to see how he explores different themes and has such a brilliant sense of play.
Subscribers’ extras
Sketchbook peek
A picture book I love
The design, composition and colour on every page is so full of joy and energy, and the placing of text in the spreads is also so fun and inspiring. I feel energised when I look at the books of Ann and Paul Rand and inspired to play and experiment.
That’s all from me. Thanks for reading!
Have you read any of the books I’ve mentioned? Can you recommend any others? I always love to hear about books so please let me know about any books you have enjoyed in a message below.
Have a great summer,
Charlotte
What a dreamy list, so much inspiration, thanks Charlotte! I am also obsessed with martin’s books and read them again and again, my fave is the Visual Storytelling one as I’m a fan of all the interviews with different types of people who make books.
I’m also loving the artists way at the moment, even without strictly doing all the activities.
For an illustrated books, are you familiar with the “This is” series by Sasek? I’m sure you are but if not then I really think they’re right up your street!
Just found you on Instagram and here! I’m loving your posts. I have the new Martin Salisbury book and am really enjoying it - one I will read cover to cover. I’ve added his other drawing one to my list!