Title: Together

Author: Luke Adam Hawker

Genre: Art/Illustration

Publisher: Kyle Books, Octopus

Publication Date: 18th March 2021

Rating: 5/5

Cover:

Summary:

‘Dark clouds were looming in the distance. We watched them gather, and we wondered… When will it come? How long will it last?’ 

A monumental storm brings huge and sudden change. We follow a man and his dog through the uncertainty that it brings to their lives. Through their eyes, we see the difficulties of being apart, the rollercoaster of emotions that we can all relate to, and the realisation that by pulling together we can move through difficult times with new perspective, hope and an appreciation of what matters most in life.

Luke has dedicated the book to his late grandfather, who was a key figure in his life. The main characters are based on his grandfather and his own dog, Robin, who offers a reassuring guide through the challenges of the storm. It’s a story with very personal emotion, but one that speaks to us all.

‘Though clouds may gather again, and we may see other storms, we have realised most of all that we are stronger facing them… Together.’

Review:

Art is a big passion of mine so I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this beautiful book which brings perspective and eloquently describes the last year or so. It’s about a man and his dog getting through a massive storm together and the challenges along the way but really it’s about a monumental change and how we as humanity have coped with it.

The words are simple and poignant but the true beauty of Together is the art contained within these pages. The drawings are so gorgeous. I love when an artist manages to breathe life into their work – especially whilst utilising very few materials. These line drawings are both frenetic and overwhelming calming at the same time, with such a strong sense of movement to them. The artist was previously an architectural designer and that is exemplified by the graphic style of his work. Every single page is utterly stunning and thought-provoking. If you are looking for a way to understand and come to terms with the emotions we have all been dealing with during the global pandemic then I highly recommend Together. This is a book I know I’ll be constantly returning to.

Thank you so much to Anne Cater of Random Things Blog Tours for inviting me on this tour and organising it. I kindly received a copy of the book from the publisher. My review is entirely my own honest opinion.