The Nutcracker

Hoffmann's classic Christmas fairy tale, immortalised by Tchaikovsky's ballet, is brought to life by the gorgeous contemporary artwork of Finnish illustrator, Sanna Annuka.

On Christmas Eve, Fritz and Marie excitedly await the arrival of Godfather Drosselmeier and the marvellous gifts he brings for them every year. When Marie discovers a curious nutcracker doll among the presents, she suddenly finds herself caught up in an age-old battle before being transported to a magical world of sugar-frosted castles, chocolate kings, and true love.

Sanna Annukka is familiar to many from her collaborations with Marimekko and her artwork for Keane's album, Under the Iron Sea. The Nutcracker is her third book project. This cloth-bound edition combines the charm of Hoffmann's original nineteenth-century tale with the freshness of Sanna Annuka's gorgeous illustrations.

A beautiful gift to give and receive.

About the Author

E.T.A. Hoffmann was one of the most important writers of German Romanticism. He is probably best remembered for his novellas and short stories, which combine fantastical elements with a darker realism and examine the harmful effect of the unfettered imagination on the pathological mind. His novella The Sandman inspired Delibes' ballet Coppelia, whilst The Nutcracker and the Mouseking became the basis of Tchaikovsky's much-loved Christmas ballet.

About the Illustrator

Sanna Annukka is a half Finnish, half English illustrator and print maker. She spent many childhood summers in Finland, and the forests, lakes and wildlife of the region remain a constant source of inspiration. Her work combines nature, childhood memories and her love of storytelling and folklore.In 2006, Sanna's work was spotted by British band Keane which led to a collaboration on their second million selling album Under the Iron Sea. Her client list includes Universal Island Records, British Vogue, Apple/iTunes and Marimekko. Alongside commissioned work Sanna has her own company, developing her own brand of self-styled products. She is currently expanding her product range from limited edition prints on paper to printed textiles, wooden products and jewellery.