Waia
2025
Client work
Editorial Design
Book Design
Typography
Cover and layout design for a fantasy novel, exploring self-discovery and the transformative power of nature.
Brief
Design a cover and layout for a self-published fantasy novel exploring the power of nature and self-discovery, with a light, approachable, and sometimes humorous tone. The author had a clear concept and provided an original illustration to express her vision, aiming for a unique, personal cover that reflects the main character’s journey. The design needed to be accessible and engaging for all readers—including those less familiar with books—and work seamlessly in both English and Spanish, across print and digital formats.
Solution
As Waia was self-published, there was a focus on keeping production costs low to maximize author royalties. I shaped the book’s visual identity based off the author’s original materials, which included both text and illustrations. The cover was based on one of the author's illustrations, which was then cleaned up and refined to boost impact while preserving its character. The organic typography pairs with the tone of the story and the author’s hand-painted and drawn illustrations. Careful attention to both layout and fine typographic details ensured clarity and a smooth reading experience. Each version was thoughtfully adapted for language and format, resulting in a polished, consistent design that supports the narrative and draws readers in.
