Cover design for Finding the Mother Tree by Suzanne Simard
Book Summary
In her first book, Simard brings us into the intimate world of the trees and brilliantly illuminates the fascinating and vital truths – that trees are not simply the source of timber or pulp, but are a complex, interdependent circle of life; that forests are social, cooperative creatures connected through underground networks by which trees communicate their vitality and vulnerabilities with communal lives not that different from our own.
Cover Design Concept
The original design for Finding the Mother Tree is a minimalist, geometric visual solution. A round, sans serif title is stacked and aligned to the center, which leads into a photograph of a tree trunk. The title is sectioned off from the imagery by a large white block. The original cover takes on a layout typical for informational books and places more emphasis on the "science" portion of the writing.
For the cover redesign, I decided to explore a different visual direction which emphasizes equally scientific discovery and personal narrative, two approaches which Simard weaves together in her book. I used three primary visual elements - the figure, the trees, and the tree annual rings. These elements serve as a visual summation of the book’s content and intent.
Imagery
I created the illustration for this cover using a combination of traditional and digital techniques. I hand-painted a collection of textures using gouache and watercolor paper, then layered and combined these assets digitally. I wanted the cover to have handmade / collaged feel, similar to a journal or a field-guide.
Typography
I designed the type by hand for this cover. Each letterform has a personal touch, like the author could've written the words herself. The typography works as a nod to Simard's narration and personal accounts.
