F i r s t I m p r e s s i o n s
When I first read the brief I immediately thought of a traditional Cluedo board game- a mystery within a traditional building, with the suspense and the excitement of trying to discover who killed Dr. Black. I wanted my book cover to portray that same feeling of excitement and intrigue. That the viewer is more than just a spectator and they can join Hazel and Daisy with the investigation- something that author Robin Stevens has said she would like to see happen.
E r a
Whilst reading the book, I was interested in the era in which it was set - the 1930's. It reminded me of St. Trinians, and I linked back to 40's Illustrator Ronald Searle, who's style of sketch like drawing is something I particularly enjoyed.
A r c h i t e c t u r e
I also enjoy the 40's architectural references Ronald Searle added to his comic style illustrations, in order to give context. This is something I hoped to do within my own Illustration.
1930's - f u r t h e r r e s e a r c h
I took my research one step further by looking at 1930's school designs, features and the uniforms. This was particularly helpful to do as I wanted my illustration to be as accurate as the authors words and set the tone of the narrative. I took interest in the sternness of the institutionalisation of school life compared to today, and found I wanted to create my own illustration of the school. I used the floor plan in the book as a means of drawing my own 3d version of Deepdean.
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C u r r e n t l y T r e n d i n g
I went to a local book store and picked out a couple of books, within the same demographical market and similar theme. It gave me an opportunity to analyse why these two books stood out to me the most- what was the pull?
- I feel that both book covers demonstrate energy and excitement very well. Wink Murder and the use of perspective to create a sense of movement and dynamics, and Bramble Fox using the contrast of light and dark to emulate a magical, whimsy feel.
- I also enjoy the colour palette in both, and the way in which the title intermingles with the illustrations, but doesnt get lost among it all
- I feel both book covers target this demographic very well- not too visually immature but not too mature either
I took inspiration from these books and incorporated some of these techniques into my final book cover​​​
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