Upstart Press Award for Best Non-Illustrated Book 2024
Finalist
Designer: Duncan Munro
Title: ‘A Bloody Difficult Subject’: Ruth Ross, te Tiriti o Waitangi and the Making of History
Publisher: Auckland University Press
Format: 240 x 170mm, 320pp, jacketed hardback with text on Yulong Pure creamy paper and a 16pp 4c matt art image section. Two Pantone colours – the orange on the jacket and endpapers, and the grey printed onto a white Wibalin Natural case, with matt varnishing, 1c black lettering and debossing.
Typography: Freight
- Title: FreightBig Pro
- Body: FreightText Pro
- Headers/footers: FreightMicro Pro
- Captions: FreightSans Pro
“The book was briefed as a classic history/biography format, and from the start we knew the image we wanted on the cover – the photograph of Ruth Ross at her desk with typewriter, cigarette in hand. It also came with quite a playful title – so the key was to work this into the image in a way that felt bold enough but also allowed the wonderfully busy office scene to shine through.”
Judges’ comments This book is a beautiful and cohesive package, exuding a sense of worthiness and erudition. And we love the orange pop on the cover! The book is meticulously designed and demonstrates a deep typographic craft. The justified text is executed seamlessly, showcasing a dedication to pushing the boundaries of one typeface family (FreightTextPro) without relying on unnecessary embellishments. The cream paper stock complements the refined use of typography and is further enhanced by thoughtful choice of plates that span the gutter.
