Much like an MP3 is generally a poor substitute for a slab of virgin 180gsm vinyl, the likes of Amazon’s kindle will always feel, to this old sod anyway, inferior to a well designed book. Thankfully much like those determined if ultimately doomed record labels that continue to stand Cnut-like neck deep in water, there are still publishers out there who appreciate the value of a nicely designed hardback.

Publishers like Black Maps Press whose latest book, the childrens’ fairy tale Anna & The Witch’s Bottle, follows in the noble tradition laid down by the likes of Carroll and Tenniel combining fantastical storytelling with gorgeous (if suitably eerie) illustrations to create something that will delight adults with an eye for nice design as much as its magical tale will win over imaginative children.

Written by Geoff Cox, illustrated Rohan Daniel Eason, with layout and design by La Boca (responsible for all those gorgeous DC Recordings sleeves), a musical accompaniament by the Doves’ Martin Rebelski and limited to just 300 copies it’s more likely to find a home on the book shelves of design studios rather than any child’s bedroom, but kids are spoilt these days so lets not lose too much sleep over that.

If you like what you see and plan to be in London any time over the next two months there is going to be an exhibition based around the book at My Sugarland boutique In Islington (from  September 10th) where you’ll be able to purchase  many of the original illustrations as well, before  The Pumphouse Gallery in Battersea Park holds the official launch party on September 22nd.