The Creation of a Classic Cover

“The brief was to condense the sense of nature in the book, wrapped around the symbolic ‘H’ for Hamnet, and the part nature played in Agnes’ life,” Cally explains.

Cally drew the plants and herbs from life, some from Kew Gardens, others from her own outdoor herb garden. “Maggie O’Farrell was closely involved, along with her editor Anne Marie Harrington and Yeti Lambregts, the book cover designer, and looked at every design and sketch to agree each stage,” Cally recalls. “We went through quite a few different designs before the H was decided on. The wrapping of the plants symbolised the power of nature, and Agnes’ role as protector.”

Even the creatures included in the print carry symbolism, representing the forest of Arden. Cally’s approach, shaped by direct observation and personal connection to plants, allowed her to bring both detail and intention to the design. “I loved working on this commission as it aligns with my passion for nature and its role as a healer and protector,” she says.

The emotional resonance of the piece deepened as the project progressed. Maggie O’Farrell described the print as a kind of headstone for Hamnet, who never had one, saying it felt like a fitting tribute. The original carved block now resides in Maggie’s writing studio, a quiet, permanent witness to the story.