Let’s Talk Bookish – Illustrations in Books

Let’s Talk Bookish is a weekly meme, hosted by Rukky @ Eternity Books & Dani @ Literary Lion, where they discuss certain topics, share their opinions, and spread the love by visiting each others’ posts.

DECEMBER 10: ILLUSTRATIONS IN BOOKS (Rayna @ Ray’s Realm)

Do you read books with illustrations in them? Do you think illustrations are only for children’s books or graphic novels? Can illustrations work well in adult literature? What are some of your favourite illustrated books?

Welcome to another week of LTB, everyone. Today’s topic is certainly interesting, as these days I don’t consider illustrations much in my novels. Nevertheless, there are times where a good illustration can really bring the novel up a notch!

I generally don’t read books with illustrations in them. That, of course, doesn’t mean that I don’t want to. I actually really enjoy the books with the little art on the chapter headings, or a nice map at the beginning just to kind of get you in the mood for the book. One good example of these little illustrations are in Stalking Jack the Ripper, the little images at the beginning of each chapter were super charming.

These kinds of illustrations are definitely not just for children’s books, or even confined to YA books even. I would actually like to see them used more often, just to give each book more of their own charm, wherever it might fit. For example, I think fantasy books could really make use of these little kinds of illustrations to really help transport the reader and create fun little visuals to be enjoyed.

There is probably a time and place for everything; perhaps mystery novels may not always be the best place for illustrations. But I think wherever there is a visual element to be augmented, or even just relevant for the reader’s interest could possibly show that some extra care has been put into the book. Now I don’t know about you all, but I always appreciate when there is something a little bit unique or extra in the book just to feel more special as a reader.

I haven’t really run into heavily illustrated books at the moment (I mean, especially in the mystery/thriller section), although even in YAs I find it rare. Certainly I’m up for discovering some new books with good artwork or illustrations, if any of you all have a suggestion, please let me know below!

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