I’ve been meaning to write about these two books ever since they came out, so it’s a good thing it’s almost time to renew my New Year’s resolution to stop procrastinating. Luckily, both books make great, really special gifts, so if you do things the way I do – which means not until they’re absolutely due – you scored with this last-minute list.
As you know, I love books and I love paper and I love scrapbooks. These two titles incorporate all of those in some way, and you should seriously consider buying copies for yourself as well as those who feel the same way.
Curling up with The Scrapbook of Frankie Pratt: A Novel in Pictures is like going back in time with someone who would probably have been your friend if you lived in the same era. Author Caroline Preston has created a story that would have kept readers turning pages even without the visuals, but those eye-popping visuals – postcards, ticket stubs, letters, catalog pages – literally add such texture and richness that they’ll take your breath away.
Through her own collection of vintage ephemera and memorabilia, Preston has pieced together the tale of young Frankie Pratt, who receives a scrapbook and typewriter for her high school graduation in 1920. She uses the stuff of everyday living – candy wrappers, menus, fabric swatches – to bring to life Frankie’s coming of age. We join her at Vassar, take part in the bohemian culture of the flapper era, travel with her to Paris and experience her dreams, heartbreaks and triumphs. This is a truly original treasure that you will swear you found hidden away in your attic. Watch Preston talk about the making of the book here.
Storm of the i: An Artobiography is the scrapbook of a real woman, and it’s a stunner. Tina Collen’s memoir packs a powerful punch, both emotionally and visually, as the author uses both words and art (all gorgeous!) to explore — and try to understand — her father’s refusal to communicate with her.
Each page of this book is full of revelations, and you never know whether you’ll find them by lifting a flap, pulling the contents from an envelope, interacting with a pop-up, unfolding panels or simply reading. Storm of the i is a very personal work of art, and it just may inspire a whole new genre of memoirs.
Okay, I have to write about these two books, too, because, after devouring the beauties I just told you about, you’re likely to feel crafty!
The Repurposed Library: 33 Craft Projects That Give Old Books New Life is the perfect book to give with an e-Reader! I love decorating with books, and this collection by Lisa Occhipinti features so many unique ways to upcycle old ones into vases, clocks, lamps and shelves. There’s even a Kindle Keeper to remind that high-tech e-Reader of its paper roots!
Collage Couture: Techniques for Creating Fashionable Art is filled with “ooh”-inspiring ideas for the little — or big! — girls in your life. Julie Nutting has put together the cutest collection of sophisticated yet funky fashion collages, and she teaches easy techniques for making cards, notebooks, clipboards and framed artwork using simple materials. You don’t even have to go out and buy pretty papers (although you’ll want to!) – you can use newspapers and old magazines to become your own designer!
Be sure to check out the websites for all these books, so you can see some sample pages. They will make you want more!
This post originally appeared on my former blog, StyleSubstanceSoul.
I thought my holiday shopping was finished and then you review more books that pique my interest. I’m going to buy these books for me! Love that you give us such a diversified selection.
I purchased Collage Couture, read it cover to cover and then began making these adorable girls. By following Julie Nutting’s simple directions, the girls are easy to make, and very gratifying! I have made some delightful gifts with my girls. I highly recommend this book.