To design this collector’s edition of Jules Verne’s “Around the World in 80 Days”, my starting point was investigating the historical context surrounding what I consider to be the main theme of this narrative – a fascination with emerging technologies from the Industrial Revolution. This led me to also explore innovations in print and graphic design from that era, as I aimed to utilize its distinct visual language to communicate the story and create an immersive, interactive reading experience.
Innovative print techniques and trends of the 19th century, such as chromolithography, the rise of hand-drawn fonts and ornamental typography styles, and the influence of exotic cultures, inspired and informed the final product. It incorporates a collection of beautiful original images and printed ephemera related to the novel’s themes of travel and transportation.
The designed outcome is an interactive collector’s edition book, that expands the reading experience and immerses the audience through paper engineering techniques, vintage imagery, and collectible inserts like postcards, cigarette cards, and maps.
To bring this vision to life, I applied carefully considered editorial design principles, print production methods, and paper mechanisms. I hand-lettered a cover inspired by 19th century typography and designed a fully illustrated interior featuring relevant archival images.
Simple yet impactful interactive elements like folds and spinning wheels promote engagement. By incorporating antique visuals, replicated ephemera, and hands-on features, I aimed to craft an immersive literary experience appealing to readers who are passionate about classic adventure tales, retro design aesthetics, and collectible editions with gamified experiences.