Review of The Flower Year by Leila Duly
As a book blogger who explores adult coloring books through the lens of mental health, I found myself irresistibly drawn to The Flower Year by Leila Duly. Having adored her previous work, Floribunda, I was excited to see how she would enhance the coloring experience this time. What struck me most was the thoughtful thematic organization around the seasons, creating not just a coloring book, but a meditative journey through the year’s bloom.
The book is beautifully presented—measuring 23 x 18 cm and wrapped in a pale pink linen-style cover that feels just as serene as the illustrations within it. The imagery, featuring a delicate black floral outline on both front and back, invites you into a world where each month is celebrated through both familiar and exotic blooms. The sturdy spine, adorned with a luxurious satin ribbon bookmark, elevates the experience. It’s these details, paired with the soft moss-green interior pages, that instantly transported me to a tranquil garden setting.
In The Flower Year, each month unfolds with a title page bordered by flowers that bloom during that time, followed by an array of illustrations—everything from individual flowers to lush double-page spreads. This design encourages a delightful exploration of nature but also creates a subtle challenge. Duly’s intricate line work, with its spindly grace, demands focus and precision. While it can be tricky to color within those fine lines, the reward is a breathtaking transformation of each page into a personal masterpiece that mirrors the beauty found in nature.
From my experiences, the medium-thick, cream-hued paper pairs beautifully with water-based pens, allowing for smooth application and minimizing bleed-through. However, I found that oil-based pencils required a touch more patience and finesse to achieve even coverage—perhaps a challenge that speaks to my perseverance as a floral enthusiast. The bittersweet reality is that this book requires good vision and fine motor skills, making it one to treasure for those brighter days when creativity flows effortlessly.
One stand-out feature is the thumbnail index that catalogs every illustration, complete with names of the depicted flora and fauna. This invites colorists to engage more deeply, perhaps aiming for realism or just enjoying the journey of making these flowers come alive on the page. I loved combing through the pages, noting flowers I was excited to spot in my own life—like crocuses making an early spring appearance outside my window.
These illustrations don’t just serve as a feast for the eyes; they are an invitation to mindfulness. The calming presence of nature-themed art plays a significant role in managing stress and anxiety—similar to how a walk in the park rejuvenates the spirit. I often found myself entranced while coloring, losing track of time in the best way. It’s a therapeutic practice that, in the end, gifted me with not just artistic spoils but a soothing escape reminiscent of a garden stroll.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend The Flower Year to nature lovers and those looking for a mindful, engaging coloring experience. Leila Duly has crafted something truly special, merging artistry with reflection and providing us the means to connect with the world around us and within us. I hope to color my way through this book, filling its pages with life and color—a beautiful journey I can’t wait to share with you all. Its significance goes beyond mere coloring; it’s a soothing reminder of nature’s ever-changing beauty and our own creative expression.
