Penguin Modern Classics

Just enough time to squeeze in one last blog post before Christmas, and what better job to write about than a job from Penguin. I love illustrating for book covers but getting one from Penguin was extra special. Raffaella sent through a blank cover with copy and a reference photo of Leo McKern (Rumpole) that I could choose to copy from, or not, whatever I felt most comfortable with. I chose not to use the photo they sent, Leo McKern's face is so characterful it was a dream to draw so I wanted to start from scratch. Those baggy cheeks and half moon specs gave me all sorts of opportunities with the pose whilst ensuring the image remained recognisably Rumpole. Although Horace Rumpole couldn't ever be anyone other than Leo McKern it was an honour and a pleasure to be able to put my (albeit very small) imprint on this character. Thanks Raffaella!

The book is published in July and is available here - http://www.penguinclassics.co.uk/nf/Book/BookDisplay/0,,9780141198828,00.html