Sam’s book cover gets third place at Penguin

BA (Hons) Illustration student Sam Ayres has come third place for in the Penguin Student Design competition for his design in the adult non-fiction category of Owen Jones’ The Establishment.

Sam says: “Getting third place is an amazing feeling; I was surprised to get shortlisted, so when they said my name I was shocked.

“As the third place winner I’m getting £350, which I’m going to put towards getting my own place after uni. However, through the event I also met a lot of Penguin staff, artists and university tutors – a collection of contacts that will hopefully be useful for my future.”

Sam’s feedback from the judges was extremely positive: “It’s a very bold cover, full of anger and rebellion. Despite the throw-away quality, I love that this is a very carefully worked out design.”

Judge Coralie Bickford-Smith adds: “It reflected the anger I felt when reading the book – its rebellious nature shouted to me from across the room.”

Read more about Sam’s inspiration for the piece