Prestel, publishes some of the best books on art, fashion, and architecture. From pop culture and major exhibition catalogues to retrospectives and biographies, the books are instructive, intelligent and beautifully-illustrated.

One of the latest releases for both children and adults is I am Coco, The Life of Coco Chanel by French-born and Berlin-based author and illustrator Isabel Pin. She has received numerous awards and was nominated for the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award in 2011 and 2012.

Featuring gorgeous illustrations I am Coco, traces the life of one of the most significant fashion designers of all time. “Fashion changes, but style endures” Chanel said, epitomising her her life philosophy. The book explores this ethos widely across fantastic chapters including “Coco is back, All women are Chanel, CC the brand“.

These great sections examines the history and work of the designer, from the creation of the Chanel’s logo, the design of Chanel No.5, to her independence as a woman wearing trousers and her success in America.

Chanel was ahead of her time and the book captures the making of an icon. Colourful and smart drawings illustrate each page of this book. The trials of a childhood as an orphan and the successes of an accomplished businesswoman gave birth to an extraordinary character, daring and free. Faithful friendships and passionate love affairs, as well as a thirst for culture, discovery and travel helped shaped her personality. A wardrobe freed from constraints, tweaked with masculine traits, resulted from a visionary allure that has become timeless and yet wildly contemporary. Pearls and diamonds casually paired with iconic perfumes led to create a signature style.

“Have you heard of Coco Chanel?” This fantastic book opens with a question which drives readers to read it in one go and enjoy the drawings, hard back covers and texts. “This book tells the story of Coco Chanel. It’s the adventure of a brave girl, who was determined to become a strong and independent woman. And she did just that. Chapeau, Coco!” this amazing title continues through Chanel’s childhood, career and travels. It also nods to Karl Lagerfeld’s reign and closes with an easy-to-digest biography featuring Chanel’s key dates such her Life in England, her first Haute Couture Fashion Show and when she became ‘Coco’.

Whether they are interested in couture, or looking to hear a complex life story, readers will find this book fascinating and deeply-researched. A wider selection of Prestel books which will continue to captivate children include “13 Art mysteries children should know” or “Ella in the garden of Giverny”.

–