Today we unveiled the cover for the new James Bond novel, Devil May Care, which I hope you'll agree is rather striking.
We're publishing this new chapter in the life of Bond in May 2008 to celebrate the centenary of Ian Fleming's birth. Sebastian Faulks has written the new novel - and it's all set to be one of the most exciting moments in 'book world' next year… keep watching this space.
We knew that this book cover had to be stylish, sophisticated and iconic - all the things one associates with Fleming's world-famous spy. So our Art Directors decided to take a slightly different approach to this artwork and we took on award-winning design agency - The Partners - who have worked with leading British brands such as Jaguar, the BBC and the National Gallery. We wanted someone who would have a slightly different take on designing a book cover, one which would go beyond usual publishing preconceptions about what such things should look like.
The Partners presented us initial designs based around the concept a blood-red flower with the silhouette of a naked woman as its stem set against a jet black background. Everyone - the Estate of Ian Fleming, Sebastian Faulks and all those involved in-house - reacted really positively to the concept artwork… so the next stage was to find our Bond cover girl. Tough job.
We knew the moment we saw Tuuli that she was the one - she exuded the grace, style and beauty one associates with all the Bond girls. Most of all Tuuli was fantastically enthusiastic and engaged with the project - her vivacity really came through in the shoot. Then the Partners applied their skills in finessing and styling - and the end result was a fantastically iconic image.
Without a shadow of a doubt I think this has been one of the most rewarding covers we've produced - the moment you mention the name James Bond people's eyes light up. Everyone involved in designing the cover has leapt to the challenge with that glint in their eyes - and the artwork really reflects that enthusiasm and passion.
You can't judge a book by it's cover - but you sure as hell can make people want to pick that book up and read it…
Alex Clarke, Editor, Penguin 007
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that cover looks brilliant. Can't wait to read the book! Don't suppose there are any spare proof copies? (never hurts to ask!)
:-)
Posted by: dave graham | December 05, 2007 at 09:56 AM
I can't wait for the book to be released, and hope that it will bring the literary Bond back to the forefront after so many years of being overshadowed by the films. Although I haven't read the new book, my advice to all is to buy it and if you like it go back and take a look at Fleming's originals.
Posted by: Lance Lycett | April 16, 2008 at 05:26 PM
it looks marvelous...can't wait to read......thanks for telling
http://www.flowergirldressforless.com
Posted by: Flower Girl | July 11, 2008 at 05:28 AM
I love all things about bond-girls!! whens this book out?
there’s even a new bond girl perfume. how cool is that.
http://avonshop.co.uk/shop/default.asp?col=2
do any of you guys have any other bond girl gifts that you know about?
Posted by: sophie424 | October 16, 2008 at 11:56 AM