We’re delighted to reveal that our Limited Edition of Nineteen Eighty-Four will be introduced by Elif Shafak.

We couldn't think of anyone better to introduce Orwell's timeless tour de force than award-winning novelist Elif Shafak. From Doublethink to cancel culture, this modern-classic could not be more relevant today – as Elif Shafak knows only too well.

‘I’ve never regarded Nineteen Eighty-Four as a futuristic dark dystopia. Actually, it felt chillingly close. The warning was not about tomorrow, it was about today. I finished it with a sense of urgency.’ 

Elif Shafak is an award-winning British-Turkish novelist who has published 19 books, including her latest novel The Island of Missing Trees. She is a bestselling author in many countries and her work has been translated into 57 languages. An advocate for women's rights, LGBTQ+ rights and freedom of expression, Shafak contributes to major publications around the world and was awarded the medal of Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres.

Folio’s Limited Edition of Nineteen Eighty-Four will be illustrated by La Boca.
 
La Boca is an independent design studio established in 2002 and specialising in illustration and image-making. They strive to create emotional connections through their work and value any part they can play in contributing to popular culture. They have worked with a wide spectrum of international clients on projects ranging from limited-edition record sleeves through to full-scale campaigns drawing on almost every type of media.
 
Their previous work for The Folio Society includes the award-winning Limited Edition of The Complete Stories: Philip K. Dick and Ubik.
 
Art Director Raquel Leis Allion handpicked the duo, emphasising that:
 
‘La Boca have a unique style which combines bold colours and strong graphic imagery.  Their reputation for pushing creative boundaries made them the perfect fit for this project.
 
For Nineteen-Eighty-Four, a novel with dystopian, political, and psychological commentary, their artistic approach provides a visually interesting interpretation that captures the oppressive atmosphere of Orwell's world. By using a mix retro and contemporary elements they bring a unique vision to the project. ’
 
Here’s a sneak peek …