An inherited mansion full of curiosities. A talking marmot. Alternate history, magic, humor. These were some of the early descriptions I was given about A Peculiar Peril, author Jeff VanderMeer’s first young adult novel. As in Jeff’s adult books, he builds a world that is strange and fantastic, and I was so excited to have the opportunity to design the cover for this new adventure.

Along with a jacket brief and the manuscript, I was given a series of illustrations by Jeremy Zerfoss that would be included throughout the book. These were helpful in giving me an early sense of tone, as well as pushing me to create a cover that matched the energy and quirkiness of the interior art.