Greetings everyone. Today i have another my library find for you, which i think is absolutely gorgeous.
Maps, travel the world without leaving your living room – is a visual feast for readers of all ages, from the award-winning polish designers aleksandra and daniel mizielinski. Three years in the making, this hand-drawn book was first published in 2012 in poland under the title “mapy’ and has now been translated and has its first publishing in the UK and australia by big picture press.
By now you’ll know that i often buy what might be termed ‘children’s books’ because, simply speaking, they are far better and more beautifully illustrated. This book, atlas, world map et cetera is nearly A3 in size and is totally engrossing and stunning.
It reminds me a little of monocle’s exquisite world map (not such a bad thing, eh) and it oozes charm and vitality. It’s full of detail and curiosities. It’s educational, it’s colourful and it will lead to great discussions. Why, i hear you ask? Because children and adults alike might question what all these icons, landmarks and illustrations actually mean, which could lead to further research. On the other hand, a well travelled child or adult could make their own marks on cities and countries already visited and embark on their very own tailor-made and unique world atlas. I could also see the potential for writers here. Why not open the book at random, put your finger on a spot and write about it. The possibilities are endless.
You won’t find much text or explanations and here the saying: ‘a picture is worth a thousand words’ really comes in to its own! Enough said, all i will add is that this atlas presents six continents and 42 selected countries and i cannot see any reason why this won’t become a best seller.
Isn’t it incredible? I’m always curious as to what age group these books are aimed at. Although probably for older, i would let a 6 year old play with it. Why not start them young! Any country you identify with? Any landmarks you want to share something about?
I’ve just found this. Apparently there are 8 different editions (languages):
http://www.behance.net/gallery/MAPS-a-journey-around-the-world-in-pictures/5287153
http://hipopotamstudio.pl/#/en/portfolio/all/maps/
Well, looks to me as if xmas presents for kids is sorted:-)
I keep saying it, but i do need a dedicated library in my next home! Happy weekend everyone.