Helvetica for the Neck

via The Literary Gift Company

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Fashion Fairy Tale Memoirs

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This week’s fairy tale in our house is “The Elves and the Shoemaker.”  (Each week, we borrow several versions of the same fairy tale from the library and compare tellings and illustrations.)  There weren’t many copies of this one on the shelves, but for some reason it spoke to me and we brought it home.  As I read it to the kids, I realized it would make a great selection for my planned Christmas Book Advent Calendar, so I hopped on the computer to buy one.  (In spite of a book-buying hiatus.  It’s been one week.  At least it’s not shoes, at least it’s not shoes, at least it’s not shoes….)

When what to my wondering eyes should appear, but SHOES.  Specifically, Manolo Blahnik shoes.

Manolo Blahnik and the Elves and the Shoemaker by Camilla Morton.

It is part of a new series of fairy tales: Fashion Fairy Tale Memoirs.  From Harper Collins:

Each book in this inspired series from fashion writer Camilla Morton inventively reimagines one of our favorite “Once Upon a Time” stories, blending with it the real-life story of a famed fashion designer. Lushly illustrated by the designers themselves, these tales illuminate each iconic individual’s creative magic while celebrating his unique life and career. The result is an intriguing combination of whimsy and memoir.

So there you have it.  We’ve got Pride and Prejudice for the toddler set, now fairy tales for fashionistas.  I love the elasticity of story.

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Literary Outfits

You know how my mantra when I buy books is “At least it’s not shoes, at least it’s not shoes, at least it’s not shoes”?  I did not really entertain serious connections between books and wardrobe, but look at this wonderful idea: an outfit to match the book, by Tiffany Gilbert at Books Matter.  Brilliant.  And I know just the quilt to curl up under to read it, too.

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