Title: Atlas of Remote Islands
Author: Judith Schalansky
First published January 1, 2009
144 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780143118206 (ISBN10: 014311820X)
Rating: 4.24
Overview
Embark on a breathtaking visual journey to fifty of the most remote and isolated islands on the planet. Judith Schalansky’s magnificent Atlas of Remote Islands is a beautifully illustrated masterpiece that will transport you to uncharted worlds that are far beyond the reach of modern civilization.
With vividly detailed maps and fascinating accounts of each island’s unique history and geography, this awe-inspiring book captures the essence of adventure and discovery. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or simply yearning for a glimpse of the unknown, Atlas of Remote Islands is the perfect escape into the unknown.
About the Author
Judith Schalansky pursued Art History at FU Berlin, and later on, Communication Design at the Fachhochschule Potsdam. Upon completing her studies in 2007, she shared her knowledge by teaching Typographic Basics at the Fachhochschule Potsdam until 2009.
Her initial release was the typographic collection, Fraktur mon Amour. Since then, she focused more on writing books while also handling the graphic design.
In 2008, she made her debut with the novel.
Editoral Review
Atlas of Remote Islands by Judith Schalansky is a book that transcends genre, style, and themes. Published on January 1, 2009, the book is a work of art that uses vivid descriptions and illustrations to transport readers to the most far-flung, isolated, and obscure islands on the planet.
Judith Schalansky, a German graphic artist and author, is renowned for her creative use of typography and design in her books. The Atlas of Remote Islands is no exception – it is a masterful combination of art and literature that meticulously details the history, geology, flora, fauna, and mythology of fifty remote islands across the globe.
The book enlightens readers about places and cultures that have been forgotten by mainstream narratives, and Schalansky’s writing style is evocative, poetic, and informative. The images and illustrations are equally stunning and immersive, making it easy to get lost in the imaginative worlds that Schalansky crafts in this compilation.
The plot of the book is centered on exploring fifty remote islands that are mostly uninhabited and overlooked. Schalansky takes us through each island one at a time, using her well-crafted writing to create vivid images of the place, its inhabitants (if any), and any relevant or intriguing stories about the island.
There are no characters per se or a traditional plot, but the book is just as captivating as any riveting novel. It is evident that Atlas of Remote Islands is rooted in history, and cultural significance abounds throughout the pages.
Each island’s history is explored and brought forth through Schalansky’s in-depth research and impeccable writing style. The book explores themes of isolation, imagination, colonization, loneliness, and survival, and these themes are still as relevant in today’s world as they were when Schalansky first wrote the book.
From a critical standpoint, Atlas of Remote Islands doesn’t have many weaknesses – it is exquisitely crafted, and the quality of writing, pacing, plot structure, and themes are exceptional. The only limitation may lie in the fact that it will take some time and effort for readers to digest the depth of information conveyed in the book.
As Schalansky examines the world’s most isolated islands, there is no point of comparison to other works in its genre, making Schalansky’s work a trailblazer. Overall, Atlas of Remote Islands by Judith Schalansky is an enchanting and informative book that inspires readers to engage with the world beyond common knowledge.
With its stunning graphics and poetic writing, readers will undoubtedly be transported to far-flung lands and emerge with a greater understanding of the world. If you enjoy books that capture history and obscure cultures or have an affinity for artful literature, then Atlas of Remote Islands is for you.
It’s a must-read edition that deserves a five-star rating.
