Modern book illustrators and their work

A richly illustrated survey, this volume brings together the work of more than fifty contemporary British artists whose drawings, engravings and designs have shaped today’s picture‑book. Curated by two knowledgeable editors, the book reproduces plates from a wide range of recent publications, each credited to its original publisher, and offers a handy reference list that lets listeners trace each illustrator’s contribution.

Beyond the images, the author’s introductory essay argues for a higher ambition in book illustration—one that moves past simple “maps” of the text to become a decorative, artistic whole. By examining how modern techniques and a growing taste for visual harmony are reshaping the relationship between word and picture, the text invites readers to reconsider the pleasure of a beautifully illustrated page. It’s a celebration of the craft, a guide to the artists behind the art, and a thoughtful look at where illustration is heading.