“The Joyful Child” by Norman Ravvin published by Gaspereau Press, a small quality publishing house in Kentville, Nova Scotia, is now available. From the hand pulled letter pressed cover, to the fine, funny and wistful writing of Norm’s, to the lovely blend of type, design and paper, this is a great book to have in the hand and on the shelf. It has been an exciting and very satisfying project to be involved in.
About five years ago Norm asked if I would like to produce illustrations for a new book he was writing. I had worked with him before on one of his early short stories and enjoyed the challenge of providing small visual accompaniments to his writing. So, when asked to contribute illustrations for a full novel I was very excited but I also felt a little uncertain about how to make images that were true to the details in the story while expanding on them. In the end the editor selected my ink illustrations for the cover and end sheets and the paper cut illustrations to head each chapter. I am happy to say that all were satisfied with how the book turned out. 
Norm has been busy giving readings across Canada. Here is a poster issued from Gaspareau Press for a talk he gave last year. Joyful Child is included in the fall catalogue of books from the Press and its very much worth having a look.
