An Imaginary Library: Children's Books That Do Not (Yet) Exist

by Barbara Scharioth

For An Imaginary Library, the participating artists were invited by the International Youth Library in Munich, Germany, to create an original book cover for a book that does not yet exist but which someday the artist would love to create. Each book cover is accompanied by a short text that expresses the artist's idea. The texts inspire the imagination and encourage dialogue, providing many opportunities for cross-cultural understanding.

These book-dreams were created for readers of all ages by three generations of artists from many regions of the world including Argentina, Australia, Belgium, China, Greece, Iran, Japan, Slovenia, Russia, Spain, South Africa, and Uruguay. Some of the countries in this book are under-represented in the appreciation and understanding of children’s literature.

For many, a first exposure to visual art came through the pages of a children’s book. An Imaginary Library explores the craft of children’s illustration as well as the intersection between visual arts and literature. The project serves as a learning opportunity for students studying English, graphic design, writing, art, literature, education, and international studies.

80 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2007