Sam Weber on illustrating the collector's edition of The Book of the New Sun

Gene Wolfe’s own definition of a great story was ‘one that can be read with pleasure by a cultivated reader and reread with increasing pleasure’, and The Book of the New Sun encapsulates that vision. Originally published by Folio as a limited edition which sold out within days, it is now available as a stunning two-volume collector's edition.

Celebrated artist Sam Weber was commissioned to illustrate the work – a labour of love that took the best part of a year to complete. Every one of his colour and 12 black-and-white illustrations are included here, as well as the four original binding designs, which form the front and back bindings of this new two-volume edition. The two-colour text includes decorative chapter initials based on an ancient script adapted by Weber to incorporate symbolic references to the story; a fitting tribute to a literary legacy that will stun generations to come.

Describing The Book of the New Sun project as ‘a dream come true’, award-winning illustrator Sam Weber relished the opportunity to work with writing that was ‘so nuanced, rich and mysterious’. Weber throws light and shadow onto a haunted world and adds another layer of meaning to this already multifaceted work.

The Folio Society produces beautifully crafted collector’s editions of the world’s greatest books, each with unique illustrations or specially researched photographs throughout. Find books you love at foliosociety.com

View this edition: www.foliosociety.com/newsun