The subtitle of the latest book from Rian Hughes (Logo-a-Gogo) is Vintage Science Fiction Book Cover Art and this lavish collection of stunning images lives up to and beyond that remit.
As a visual almanac of classic sci-fi artwork, it’s a glorious thing of beauty. So many great images are included that there will be a favourite on almost every page. In his introduction, Hughes gives us an insight into how he became aware of these otherworldly books such as Amazing Stories and Astonishing Science Fiction that presented the stories that would take the reader on a journey to outer space with vivid, striking graphic illustrations setting the scene perfectly. Although a personal recollection, it’s also a potted history of the format and is very relatable no matter what level your familiarity of the medium might be.
As well as the anthology magazines, paperback books are also covered extensively, with some famous titles included alongside the rare. For all the fascinating information in the text, it’s the covers that will keep you coming back to take in more. Hours can be spent pouring through the illustrations and it’s a collection that you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. The slightly embossed logo on the dust jacket is a nice touch too.
Although not a complaint, it’s a shame that it’s not in a larger format, as there are many pages that feature nine covers, but it’s a certainly not a deal-breaker as there are so many amazing reproductions with the almost 470 pages that you’ll be blown away by the beauty of the art rather than grumbling about the size.
Rayguns and Rocketships is out now from Korero Press
