Book Cover of "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee using the PENGUIN archive briefs

As an illustrator and designer, few projects are as thrilling as working on a beloved classic like "To Kill a Mockingbird." Using the Penguin Archive Briefs for a self-initated project I illustrated and designed the book cover. I wanted to capture the essence of the story through my artwork. The novel unfolds in the small town of Maycomb, Alabama, in the midst of the 1930s, and is steeped in themes of innocence, moral growth, and the harsh realities of prejudice. With these concepts in mind, I envisioned a cover that would resonate with readers of all ages and reflect the experiences of the children in the story. One of the most significant aspects of my design was the hand-drawn border. I wanted to incorporate elements that the children find in a tree, echoing their adventures and imaginations. This thoughtful inclusion connects back to the themes of childhood curiosity and the innocence of the characters, particularly Scout and Jem. I sourced inspiration from nature. Each item in the border was meticulously illustrated to provide a sense of whimsy and nostalgia. For the title, I also opted for a hand-drawn approach. I wanted it to feel personal and intimate, much like the experiences the children go through in the story. By using a unique font that I designed myself, I aimed to convey both the gravity of the novel's themes and the warmth of childhood. I spent countless hours sketching and refining the title until I felt it perfectly captured the spirit of the book. After finalizing the illustrations, I worked to harmonize the colors and layout, ensuring that everything flowed seamlessly. The combination of earthy brown wooden tones and vibrant golden accents reflects the Southern setting and the richness of the narrative. I aimed for the cover to invite readers in and make them feel a connection to the story even before they turned the first page. Creating the cover for "To Kill a Mockingbird" was not only a creative endeavor but a personal journey that deepened my appreciation for this timeless story. I hope that every reader who picks up the book feels a sense of connection to the characters and their world—much like I did while bringing this illustration to life. In the end, it’s more than just a cover; it’s a portal to the powerful themes and emotions woven throughout Harper Lee’s masterpiece. I'm excited for readers, both new and returning, to embark on this literary journey with the imagery that accompanies it.

I also created patterns than can be used for endpapers and for the sides of the book as sprayed edges.