On My Bookshelf.

My bookshelf is currently bursting at the seams-literally-one of the shelves is actually sagging! I can hardly bear to part with any of my beloved books, so perhaps an additional shelf is in order. One of my goals for 2009 is to build up my inspiration library (and steer away from purchasing so much fiction, but it's so hard!). I received some pretty fantastic books over the holidays that I thought I would share because they are just so great.

This is a darling book my mom and I picked up at Wild Rumpus (fantastic store btw). As someone who grew up with Ramona Quimby, I was quite drawn to this book. The use of collage and photography combined with the line illustration creates a great effect. Each page puts a smile on my face.


This version of Pippi is incredible. Lauren Child is my new idol, I simply adore her illustrations and use of pattern in this story. It's perfection.


When I read a review of this version of the Hans Christian Anderson story in Elle, I knew I had to get my hands on a copy. While it was somewhat hard to find, it was well worth the wait. The elegant black and white illustrations are so beautiful and contemporary that I quite honestly find it difficult to pay attention to the story.


As someone who is completely obessed with patterns, this book was the perfect choice. Mike Perry of the studio Midwest is Best put together a catalog of some great hand-drawn patterns. Check out his work at: www.mikeperrystudio.com


And last, but certainly not least is a book that I am currently in the middle of reading. I LOVE New York probably more than any other city in the world and so I was instantly drawn to this YA novel. The type and illustration just work so well together. The story is really interesting as well, perhaps a bit gritty and depressing, but good.

I was a lucky girl this holiday season! What inspiring gifts did you recieve or perhaps purchase for yourself?