We were unanimous in considering this the perfect example of a successful, well-made literary paperback. Even the book block plays its part by using the illustrations in an attractive way to mark the start of each chapter, and these in turn reflect the cover image. Happily, for this cover, use has not been made of a random ‘350-gramme sulphate board’, which would have negated the use of a cold-glued binding. These are essential elements of the experience of a book, and here they have been well considered. We are therefore willing to forgive that fact that – owing to the shrinkage of the cold glue – the tactile, fragile jacket sits just a little too loosely, and that this – compared to the paper cover – is just a shade too white. This book exudes teamwork, alongside a subtle uniformity.

Praise also, finally, for the back board: seldom is such a daring back cover seen in a literary publication. We must say that Das Mag Uitgevers has once again set itself apart. Whereas the restrictive demands of the Centraal Boekhuis logistics centre’s mass processing prompt many publishers to make the safe choice for a mat, laminated paperback, here an external production supervisor has been brought in, and no noticeable concessions have been made. The result is a fresh-looking publication that also feels good.