ITS NOT WHAT YOU THOUGHT IT WOULD BE HC

We’re delighted to reveal our Gosh! Exclusive Bookplate Edition of Lizzy Stewart’s upcoming book from Fantagraphics, It’s Not What You Thought It Would Be. 

Lizzy Stewart is a London-based illustrator and writer who we’ve been a big supporter of for years. She’s published three best-selling picture books, Juniper Jupiter, The Way to Treasure Island and the Waterstones Children's Book Award winning There’s A Tiger in the Garden, as well as numerous comics and zines. Her unique style, often blending watercolour and coloured pencil, is perfect for capturing moments of complexity and deep reflection — as shown in her 2019 graphic essay Walking Distance, from Avery Hill. 

It’s Not What You Thought It Would Be is collection of intertwined shorter works, here’s what Fantagraphics has to say about it:

“This poignant coming-of-age story follows several young women on their circuitous paths to adulthood.

A young girl imagines a grand future for herself, far from the drab British suburbs. Two friends, once inseparable, find their connection gradually slipping away. Three women discuss how life in the big city makes them feel seen — or invisible. In a series of interconnected vignettes, It's Not What You Thought It Would Be explores the circuitous paths lives can take and the changes in perspective gained along the way.

In a series of interconnected vignettes, Stewart focuses on the ordinary, slice-of-life moments — teenagers climbing up and lounging on a rooftop, friends catching up over pints at the pub, a woman riding the night bus home — and charges these scenes with a quiet intensity. Through keen observation and an ear for naturalistic dialogue, she reveals the complex natures of her characters, from their confidence to their insecurities, as they experience the joys and pains of growing up. Drawn in a variety of different styles, from watercolor to colored pencil to pen and ink, the style of this book echoes the evolution of the characters within.”

The A5 plates, printed on 270gsm Colorplan Bright White, are limited to an edition of 100 numbered copies, all signed by Lizzy. 

It’s Not What You Thought It Would Be is due for release in the UK on the 8th Julyfor £21.99. Copies can be pre-ordered through our webstore for mail order or in-store pick-up now!