You know what three things really thrill me?
#1 ... Details.
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I love the musical notes! I love the little boy's expression!
There are SO many lovely little details in this book...
And all done in Alicia's signature soft, sweet style. |
#2... Die cuts!
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Okay... so any excuse for a die cut is good enough for me.
But you know what's really special and meaningful?
When it's done with thoughtfulness, purpose, and a design
specifically intended for its audience. Functional fun!
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#3... Spot gloss!
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Spot gloss is so great when used effectively. When it's not, you wonder
why it is there art all (at least I do). No worries about that here!
The cover spot gloss is used sparingly but very effectively. The book
cover is a soft, velvety matte finish, which works perfectly with the
spot-glossed title and angels. It's just the little "extra something" that elevates
the cover art and design to the next level of awesome. |
Please comment for a chance to win a copy of Alicia's beautiful new book, Ladybird First Favorite Christmas Book! You have until saturday to comment, and then Ali will be randomly picking a winner on Sunday. So stay tuned! :)
3 Comments on Christmas Book Week Celebration - Day Five, last added: 12/10/2011
I'm picking this final spread in Ali's book to focus on. My 3yo son seems most captivated by this spread. It's the first story of Jesus that we've read. Each time, he wants to know what is in the boxes. I explain the gifts of the Magi in a very simple way.
Today he decided he wanted what was in this box (Myrrh). I don't blame him. Look how sweetly Ali has rendered the king (and his camel!). I think the nativity story can feel a little scary but Ali has brought her warmth and heart to every element and it really shows.
The book overall is a great addition to our library. I love the combination of hymns, songs, and Nativity story. It's made so well, it will surely last for many Christmases to come.
Be sure and leave a comment so you can have a chance to win this beautiful book!
© copyright Alicia Padrón
I was very excited when Ladybird contacted me offering to illustrate one of their books. They had a Fairy Tale book in mind that they thought would work very well with my illustrations. They asked me to whip up a full spread paid sample first with my choice of the Fairy Tale characters in it.
I came up with the illustration you see above. I always thought Little Red Riding Hood set in the winter instead of spring would be so much lovelier, so I placed all the characters in a snowy forest.
After seeing this, Ladybird decided they wanted me to illustrate a Christmas title instead. I was thrilled because I am a Christmas nut. It's my favorite time of the year. I just love the magic in the air. People seem happier and it's all about the kids. So of course, I said yes. :o)
© copyright Alicia Padrón
This is one of my favorite spreads in the book. When I was a little girl, I always imagined how thrilling it would be to see Santa. I think all kids wish this at one point or another. So I gave them that in this illustration.
© copyright Alicia Padrón
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I'm a details junkie myself too:-) This book looks so wonderful Alicia!
This book looks so nice, love the details! They really do have the power to make a book that much better. Thanks for the giveaway!
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All of Ali's books are of good quality! I have read Wish Trees and I Love You All Year Round to my toddlers over a thousand times. Congratulations once again :)