Designing the Criss-Crossing Cover for "Noughts and Crosses"

Through a self-inititated project I deigned and illustrated the cover and endpapers for the penguin archive book brief of "Noughts and Crosses" by Malorie Blackman. This project offered a wonderful opportunity to explore the poignant themes of the story, particularly the idea of paths that crisscross yet never meet. To begin, I hand drew various elements that embodied the narrative’s complexity. The patterns I developed reflect the intersecting lives of the characters, highlighting the tension and longing inherent in relationships that are shaped by societal divides. My goal was to visually represent how their paths never meet, even as they struggle to connect with one another. One of the most fulfilling aspects of the design was hand drawing the title. Crafting it by hand allowed me to infuse a personal touch, echoing the unique and heartfelt story that unfolds in the book. This design experience not only let me showcase my artistic skills but also deepened my understanding of the themes of connection and separation in "Noughts and Crosses."