books & things

It's always a bit strange to see an object you've worked to produce when it comes back from the printer; weeks of work manifested in real form. Looking at things objectively is often difficult when you've been so engrossed in the behind-the-scenes!

BUT, I'm very pleased to offer a small glimpse into some of the pieces I've been working on over the past several months here. And of course, my work would not be what it is without the amazing talents of the brilliant and delightful illustrators I've had the great pleasure to work with on these–Thank you all. And, enjoy!

from the design desk

I've been busy busy back here on the West Coast, making and doing and working and playing as a children's designer at Chronicle Books. But I'm never too busy for some whimsy! Please check out my recent contribution to the Chronicle Books blog here. 

we are not cold

Silly Snow Monster! by Ella and Owen. Minneapolis, MN. December 2010

In this land where the snow falls, when the blankets of white turn into shards of grey, it is too easy to succumb to the cold; to see the world through narrowed eyes and allow the turning inwards to overtake us–a novocaine for the soul.

Yet it is now the New Year, I've spent a week back in my beloved wintry land, and through it all I'm left with a steadfast hope that human beings are not cold. We were not born to be anesthetized automatons, seeking solace in our economical pragmatism. Rather, we were born to hope, to mess up, to laugh, to cry, and to find joy and strength in the warmth of others.

So here's to a fresh start, to a continued hope in the existence of romance and wonderment in a world far too driven by austerity. Happy New Year to loved ones near and far!

swedish notes

This impeccable set of vintage notecards landed merrily in my mailbox recently–a surprise gift from a faraway friend! I cannot get enough of the design motifs of old-world Sweden; the sweetness and sentimentality remind me so much of the place I call home.

I'll be holiday homeward bound one week from now–at least for a short while. Bring on the gravlax, and mom's Swedish meatballs with jam!

And, thank you Tamara.

misfits

Found these forgotten friends at the bottom of the bin during a recent visit to the glorious Alameda Antiques Faire, scattered pieces from a child's crafting game. I love the garish absurdity of the techni-color palate; candid and cute, if not a bit grotesque...

They would fit in quite well on the Island of Misfit Toys, don't you think?

heights

We drove through winding wooded roads, past white waves and grassland elks, until we reached our final height; a lighthouse, perched at the end, and the beginning, of the world.

And, upon returning, we left our breaths by the sea, with strength gained in the necessary discomfort and discovery of the unknown.

colors & numbers

I'm pleased to present a sneak peek of this precious little pair of board books–one of my first printed pieces for Chronicle Books! Previously published in France as "Coleurs" and "Chiffres," these books were re-formatted in English and re-designed by me, with illustrations by Monsieur Thierry Laval. Look for them on your local bookstore shelves this spring.

Can you count to 10? Grover and John John can!

the life of mr. mustache

Received the loveliest piece of post in my mailbox this past week, all the way from across the sea! Introducing The Life of Mr. Mustache, a charming little book by Studio Violet, plus a surprise notecard set from the ever-admirable Fine Little Day! Much Thanks, Elisabeth! This has made my week.

"He thought to himself, why am I sad? I have a good life, it's not all that bad. I should be smiling and not feeling blue. But worry worry worry is all I seem to do..."

–The Life of Mr. Mustache

make your mark!

I had the super cool awesome rad! privilege today of spending the afternoon with a fantastic group of fellow Chronicle Books designers, and a lively group of tweens. The day was filled with sunshine, crafting, popcorn, and prizes, and the event was a smashing success! We learned a lot from these silly 8-12 year olds, all while promoting a love of reading and creativity at this critical "in-between" age.

(I also happened to have the even bigger privilege of designing all promotional materials for the event. Please take a look at some of the applications, above!)

The houses in my neighborhood have been haunting for weeks, in preparation for tonight's tricks or treats...and in his annual Halloween greeting, my grandpa reminds me that all fear should be fleeting. Happy Halloween, everyone!