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C O U R T E S Y O F A S S O U L I N E , P H A I D O N ; P H OTO BY P E T E R B U C H A N A N - S M I T H ( B E N N E T T ) The Library Collection is a series of beautifully crafted objects and fragrances meant to turn a home library into more than a space for books: Assouline wants it to be a sanctuary. Created in collaboration with acclaimed French designer Pierre Favresse, the first category in the series is The Essentials, a meticulously curated suite of more than 10 thoughtfully designed functional items (left). Each elegant piece is imbued with Assouline's signature aesthetic, featuring wood, leather, and brass in a color palette of red, camel, and brown. Inspired by the personal treasures of the Assouline family, the items evoke the quiet sophistication of their private world. The library-inspired home fragrance line includes candles and diffusers, presented in amber glass vessels. With scents reminiscent of polished wood shelves, leather-bound tomes, lush paper, and smoky tobaccos, these fragrances summon the ambiance of the most luxurious libraries. The result is an olfactory experience that is at once peaceful and deeply immersive—a scent story that complements the tactile beauty of a well appointed space. — D. F. A CURATOR OF CULTURE Assouline has long been more than a mere book publisher—and with the debut of its Library Collection, it deepens its imprint in the home. Twisted bookend in brushed brass Heritage frame in camel leather Leather-scented candle Pebbled-leather backgammon set Cubist bookend in red leather Collector bookstand Archival magnifying glass Mirage hourglass Give us a snapshot of what it means to be an art director at Phaidon. First and foremost, it means working with some of the most talented, passionate people in the industry, across a spectrum of disciplines—editorial, illustration, production, and design—and across the world! The children's book process is a collaborative one, and Phaidon is a global company with offices in New York City, London, and Paris. That means my day is a balance of video meetings discussing various facets of book projects and solitary time designing at my office in upstate New York. The books you work on might be considered unexpected within the children's genre. What would you say is the hallmark of Phaidon's children's books? Thank you so much for saying that, because I think striking a balance between the expected and the unexpected and executing with quality are the hallmarks. We strive for books that: feel new/relevant and stand the test of time; are beautiful and thoughtful; inspire curiosity and creativity; simultaneously challenge and respect the reader. On the 20th anniversary of Phaidon Kids, we sat down with Art Director Meagan Bennett to discuss what sets the house apart, the everlasting appeal of Tomi Ungerer, and a few new titles that should be on every child's summer reading list. — TALI JAFFE-MINOR "My Art Book of Love." For slightly older kids who enjoy more of a story, I love "Brick" or "The Three Robbers." And, for even older kids, like my 12-year-old nephew, it's "Exploring the Elements." Who would you say was a game changer in children's publishing, and why? Although I did not grow up with his books, I have developed a deep, abiding love of Tomi Ungerer and the revolutionary path he forged in children's publishing. He believed in creating books—such as "The Three Robbers," "Fog Island," and "Moon Man"—that truly respected children as equals and never lost touch with his own inner child. He pioneered books that broached hard subjects, told stories with honesty and humor, and remained fiercely curious and creative until the end of his life. Can you share a few personal highlights of the Spring/Summer season at Phaidon? I was delighted to have the opportunity to give the "First Concepts with Fine Artists" series a bright cover refresh. "Blue and Other Colors" was one of the first books I designed at Phaidon, and I really love the entire series. I'm also very excited for the Fall list, which includes a new "Cook in a Book" and a new stunning nonfiction book from the powerhouse duo of Sara Gillingham and Isabel Thomas. BOOK SMART Where do you seek out new talent? I am always on the lookout for illustrators, and inspiration is everywhere—bookshops, stationery stores, illustration agencies, blogs, Instagram, advertisements, email submissions. One of the primary reasons I pursued a career in children's publishing was that it afforded me the opportunity to find and work with illustrators; I am continually awed by their talent. From your own childhood, is there a children's book you frequently return to? "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" by Eric Carle. The format, story, and artwork create something that feels so simple but also entirely surprising. I've had a quote on my desktop for years that says...The great works for children have the density of poetry and the depth of a parable. For me, "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" qualifies as one of those great works. What's your go-to book for gifting? For really young kids, it's either a tactile board book like "This is Not a Book" or "Cook in a Book: Spaghetti," or something lovier like "Hug This Book" or Bennett and the must-read children's books for summer. books for summer. Find your favorite Phaidon titles at Books & Books Bal Harbour Shops BALHAR B O U RSH O P S .CO M

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