VISUAL POP CULTURE KITSCH BOOKS FROM MARK BATTY PUBLISHER: GRAFFITI, FONTS.
I must say, I’m très impressed by the Book Week recommendations I received in the comments. You’re a dark and intelligent bunch! La Carmina’s giveaway runs until Sunday at midnight, so you can keep entering to win a fuzzy red hoody or bad cat T-shirt from Evil Kitty. Again, just leave a comment with a beloved book title and why it’s dear to you.
Today I want to introduce you to Mark Batty, a New York indie publisher that will release my book on Tokyo Theme Restaurants next March. Have you ever come across a killer band, looked up their record company, and ended up loving everything on the label? This was the case with me and Mark Batty. You may remember my review of Face Food, a book they published on Japanese character bentos (which inspired my Western twist on the trend, Cooking Cute). I went to their website and was blown away; all of their releases appealed to my design-happy, kitsch-campy sensibility. And we both adore J-pop culture: this September, Mark Batty will unveil Graffiti Japan, a definitive look at what makes this country’s graffiti distinctly its own.
How fabulous is Madonna of the Toast? This book documents what happens when religious and secular icons appear on objects such as pancakes, potato chips and cows. Virgin Mary Grilled Cheese? Mother Teresa on a cinnamon bun? Jar Jar Binks on a shed door? Jesus on a mandolin? Oh mein gott, mein gott…
Moving on to Elvis… Imposters documents the out-of-work actors who spend their days dressed up as iconic Hollywood characters. You can expect similar tongue-in-cheek writing and wild photography in my upcoming book!
And you have to check out Celebrity Vinyl, a riotous reminder of what happens when famous people decide to (unsuccessfully) give singing a try – Burt Reynolds, Shaquille O’Neal, John Travolta, Eddie Murphy, Leonard Nimoy, Alyssa Milano – the list goes on and on, as do the laughs.
I’m so pleased to be part of Mark Batty Publisher’s wacky world of typography, photography, and pop culture. What are some of your visual favorites? Don’t forget to comment for a chance to win goodies from Evil Kitty! And check out the Evil Kitty website if you haven’t already; the bright, casual Gothic designs include shrugs, arm warmers, kid’s clothes, and undies. Meow!
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LA CARMINA
43 Comments
His work looks amazinng, like something I definitely wouldn't mind venturing into.
Let's see.
I actually did enjoy the book “Memoirs of a Geisha”. Like with most movies it left out a whole lot from the book, things that I considered to be quite important plot elements. If you've only seen the movie, you're missing out on a great story.
My current favorite book is Haruki Murakami's “Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World.” It's a kind of surrealist fiction and is somewhat unique in its storytelling style. There are dual stories that are spun out and that eventually overlap. I think it's very beautiful and a little different. It's special to me because it's the first Murakami novel that I ever read and I clearly remember the summer that I read it and several other novels. Since then, I've read every other Murakami novel that's been translated into English, several of which I would recommend without reservation, but since you wanted one recommendation, please enjoy this one ^____^
Murakami has such a knack for that… I can remember so clearly everything that was going on in my life when I was reading Norwegian Wood. Haven't read this one yet. Some people hated the surrealism of Wind-Up Bird, but I thought it was the best part!
Ohhhhh yeah! I love Norwegian Wood, too! I read it the same summer. I devoured so much Murakami that summer, it was insane. I think I also read Natsume Soseki's “I am a Cat.” Norwegian Wood was so different from some of his other novels because of how realistic it was. I mean, Murakami works within a kind of modern realism, but often introduces magical or otherworldly elements. Norwegian Wood was just so heart breaking and poignantly down-to-earth.
His work looks amazinng, like something I definitely wouldn’t mind venturing into.
Let’s see.
I actually did enjoy the book “Memoirs of a Geisha”. Like with most movies it left out a whole lot from the book, things that I considered to be quite important plot elements. If you’ve only seen the movie, you’re missing out on a great story.
My current favorite book is Haruki Murakami’s “Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World.” It’s a kind of surrealist fiction and is somewhat unique in its storytelling style. There are dual stories that are spun out and that eventually overlap. I think it’s very beautiful and a little different. It’s special to me because it’s the first Murakami novel that I ever read and I clearly remember the summer that I read it and several other novels. Since then, I’ve read every other Murakami novel that’s been translated into English, several of which I would recommend without reservation, but since you wanted one recommendation, please enjoy this one ^____^
Murakami has such a knack for that… I can remember so clearly everything that was going on in my life when I was reading Norwegian Wood. Haven’t read this one yet. Some people hated the surrealism of Wind-Up Bird, but I thought it was the best part!
Ohhhhh yeah! I love Norwegian Wood, too! I read it the same summer. I devoured so much Murakami that summer, it was insane. I think I also read Natsume Soseki’s “I am a Cat.” Norwegian Wood was so different from some of his other novels because of how realistic it was. I mean, Murakami works within a kind of modern realism, but often introduces magical or otherworldly elements. Norwegian Wood was just so heart breaking and poignantly down-to-earth.
I recently read this and LOVED it. Thanks for the recommendation!
This may seem a bit played out but the book that is very dear to me is the fruits book vol. 1.
It was the book that inspired me to make clothing. I don't know how I would have gotten to where I am now with out being first inspired by that book. It was a gift to me from my older brother on Christmas. and I still cherish it to this day. I'm really lucky to have recieved such a bright and colorful book at such a young age, it really opened my eyes and showed me that there is more to fashion than just expensive shoes and handbags!
much love,
Rubi
Both Fruits books have been big inspirations for me too. It was like learning a new language – I didn't know where to begin looking! Now, I recognize most of the Japanese brand names and style tribes… but the sense of outerworldliness remains.
This may seem a bit played out but the book that is very dear to me is the fruits book vol. 1.
It was the book that inspired me to make clothing. I don’t know how I would have gotten to where I am now with out being first inspired by that book. It was a gift to me from my older brother on Christmas. and I still cherish it to this day. I’m really lucky to have recieved such a bright and colorful book at such a young age, it really opened my eyes and showed me that there is more to fashion than just expensive shoes and handbags!
much love,
Rubi
Both Fruits books have been big inspirations for me too. It was like learning a new language – I didn’t know where to begin looking! Now, I recognize most of the Japanese brand names and style tribes… but the sense of outerworldliness remains.
“The Bloodied Cravat” by Rosemary Stevens.
At first glance of the cover, you might think that The Bloodied Cravat is just another cheap whodunit with a few frills added here and there to make the British Regency era background more believable. However, from the start it becomes very apparent that such an assumption simply isn't true. The first obvious reason is that the main character, Beau, is hopelessly, adorably, and obviously in love with the married Frederica, duchess of York (whose husband, I might add, is off on vacation with his mistress for almost the entire novel). When she invites everyone who is anyone to her birthday party at her beautiful country estate, a rather unfavorable man is murdered – with one of her hair accessories. Blackmailing, sleuthing, and fashion (both good and disastrous) ensue as Beau tries to clear his lovely darlings name, as well as his own, before a certain love letter (that certainly should have been burned long ago, for shame) is found.
Though it was a fairly light and quick read for me, I thoroughly enjoyed the plot. The insane number of red herrings, coupled with the eventual surprising, yet perfectly fitting ending made this book one that I would recommend to anyone who is a fan of mystery or aristocrats of any kind. ^.~
“The Bloodied Cravat” by Rosemary Stevens.
At first glance of the cover, you might think that The Bloodied Cravat is just another cheap whodunit with a few frills added here and there to make the British Regency era background more believable. However, from the start it becomes very apparent that such an assumption simply isn’t true. The first obvious reason is that the main character, Beau, is hopelessly, adorably, and obviously in love with the married Frederica, duchess of York (whose husband, I might add, is off on vacation with his mistress for almost the entire novel). When she invites everyone who is anyone to her birthday party at her beautiful country estate, a rather unfavorable man is murdered – with one of her hair accessories. Blackmailing, sleuthing, and fashion (both good and disastrous) ensue as Beau tries to clear his lovely darlings name, as well as his own, before a certain love letter (that certainly should have been burned long ago, for shame) is found.
Though it was a fairly light and quick read for me, I thoroughly enjoyed the plot. The insane number of red herrings, coupled with the eventual surprising, yet perfectly fitting ending made this book one that I would recommend to anyone who is a fan of mystery or aristocrats of any kind. ^.~
And you know I’m a fan of mysterious Gothic aristocrats. ;)
There are really so many books to choose from that I really have trouble deciding…
I would have to recommend: “Empty Cages: Facing the Challenge of Animal Rights” by Tom Regan. When I first wanted to research on the ethics behind veganism and the living conditions of domesticated food animals I found myself coming across this book. It is a humorous, yet descriptive account of the lives all animals whom are taken advantage of for our modern conveniences, and is quite the eye-opener without being composed in a written style barely comprehensible to the average reader,
dear Carmina,
my favourite book (well, it is the first in a series) which I recommend is The Enchantments of Flesh and Spirit by Storm Constantine.
it is a dark, post-apocalyptic fantasy series about the mutation of the human race into a race of hermaphrodite-like, beautiful men (think of them as looking all cyberpunk/visual kei) who can reproduce with each other.. I think the series is a gorgeous, breathtaking exploration of gender, beauty, personality and love. shallow and cheesy as it sounds, it changed my life completely..
your blog makes me so happy! I found it when I was having a bad time of things, it cheered me up, and now I read it every day. I love your take on gothic lolita and its beauty.. I wish you every success and I'm saving up to buy one of your lovely coats.
Wow, that makes *me* so happy to hear! Thanks for your recommendation and for being a friend :)
There are really so many books to choose from that I really have trouble deciding…
I would have to recommend: “Empty Cages: Facing the Challenge of Animal Rights” by Tom Regan. When I first wanted to research on the ethics behind veganism and the living conditions of domesticated food animals I found myself coming across this book. It is a humorous, yet descriptive account of the lives all animals whom are taken advantage of for our modern conveniences, and is quite the eye-opener without being composed in a written style barely comprehensible to the average reader,
I came across this when I was researching my first book, Cosmos in a Carrot… it was really helpful for my discussion about nonviolence and the way we eat. A great read.
dear Carmina,
my favourite book (well, it is the first in a series) which I recommend is The Enchantments of Flesh and Spirit by Storm Constantine.
it is a dark, post-apocalyptic fantasy series about the mutation of the human race into a race of hermaphrodite-like, beautiful men (think of them as looking all cyberpunk/visual kei) who can reproduce with each other.. I think the series is a gorgeous, breathtaking exploration of gender, beauty, personality and love. shallow and cheesy as it sounds, it changed my life completely..
your blog makes me so happy! I found it when I was having a bad time of things, it cheered me up, and now I read it every day. I love your take on gothic lolita and its beauty.. I wish you every success and I’m saving up to buy one of your lovely coats.
Wow, that makes *me* so happy to hear! Thanks for your recommendation and for being a friend :)
oh! of course :) I never wanted to comment on posts before as I felt I was intruding (silly, yes), but your invitation to share our favourite books made me pluck up the courage to!
oh! of course :) I never wanted to comment on posts before as I felt I was intruding (silly, yes), but your invitation to share our favourite books made me pluck up the courage to!
“20,000 Years of Fashion: The History of Costume and Personal Adornment” by François Boucher
Harry N. Abrams, Inc., Publishers, New york
I was foutunate enough to find the 1987 expanded edition for $150 a few years ago. This book is full of inspiration.
Boris Vian: Foam of the Daze
Surrealistic, poetic, tender. A great love story in a world of his own. Who wouldn't die for a piano-cocktail??
“20,000 Years of Fashion: The History of Costume and Personal Adornment” by François Boucher
Harry N. Abrams, Inc., Publishers, New york
I was foutunate enough to find the 1987 expanded edition for $150 a few years ago. This book is full of inspiration.
I’m going to do a post about a beautiful costume anthology tomorrow – I can’t get enough of them!
Boris Vian: Foam of the Daze
Surrealistic, poetic, tender. A great love story in a world of his own. Who wouldn’t die for a piano-cocktail??
Le sigh! L’Écume des Jours… another one I’ve been meaning to read in French…
I'm going to do a post about a beautiful costume anthology tomorrow – I can't get enough of them!
I came across this when I was researching my first book, Cosmos in a Carrot… it was really helpful for my discussion about nonviolence and the way we eat. A great read.
And you know I'm a fan of mysterious Gothic aristocrats. ;)
Le sigh! L'Écume des Jours… another one I've been meaning to read in French…
I recommend Wicked Lovely, by Melissa Marr. It's an urban fantasy of epic proportions.
The main character, Aislinn, has the Sight, and the fairies she sees are beautiful and horrifying. She's had to live her entire life pretending she can't see them. Her grandmother and mother also have the Sight, but her mother died after Aislinn was born. But when fairies start stalking Aislinn and her just-friend Seth, things get complicated, fast.
It's dark, very dark, with a healthy dose of relationship chaos (A loves B, who still loves A but is courting C, who loves D and hates B). And one of the best parts is that the “bad guy” (the Winter Queen) -a sadistic, cruel, and just twisted person- dresses like a 50's homemaker (complete with apron, cookies, and a pearl necklace).
I read the book twice within three days, a rare thing for me. An excellent, excellent book.
I personally know that Superman featured in that “Imposters” book.He is Christopher Dennis,and he is one of the superhero lookalikes who hang out in front of Mann's Chinese Theatre in Hollywood California.
Shortly after 9/11,I found myself in between homes.I became “Superman”s live-in housekeeper.His apartment is a Superman museum.He's a great guy,and he really looks like Clark Kent even in normal clothing.Living with him enabled me to remain in my favorite neighborhood,near my post office,storage and best friends.And so I was able to continue getting MY acting and modeling gigs.
What a treat that you featured this.
What an awesome and surreal story! It's so funny how paths cross, isn't it?
I recommend Wicked Lovely, by Melissa Marr. It’s an urban fantasy of epic proportions.
The main character, Aislinn, has the Sight, and the fairies she sees are beautiful and horrifying. She’s had to live her entire life pretending she can’t see them. Her grandmother and mother also have the Sight, but her mother died after Aislinn was born. But when fairies start stalking Aislinn and her just-friend Seth, things get complicated, fast.
It’s dark, very dark, with a healthy dose of relationship chaos (A loves B, who still loves A but is courting C, who loves D and hates B). And one of the best parts is that the “bad guy” (the Winter Queen) -a sadistic, cruel, and just twisted person- dresses like a 50’s homemaker (complete with apron, cookies, and a pearl necklace).
I read the book twice within three days, a rare thing for me. An excellent, excellent book.
I personally know that Superman featured in that “Imposters” book.He is Christopher Dennis,and he is one of the superhero lookalikes who hang out in front of Mann’s Chinese Theatre in Hollywood California.
Shortly after 9/11,I found myself in between homes.I became “Superman”s live-in housekeeper.His apartment is a Superman museum.He’s a great guy,and he really looks like Clark Kent even in normal clothing.Living with him enabled me to remain in my favorite neighborhood,near my post office,storage and best friends.And so I was able to continue getting MY acting and modeling gigs.
What a treat that you featured this.
What an awesome and surreal story! It’s so funny how paths cross, isn’t it?
I recently read this and LOVED it. Thanks for the recommendation!
I recently read this and LOVED it. Thanks for the recommendation!