Alan Male's Illustration is a classic in the field. Bringing together theory, context and issues around conceptual understanding, the book is a perfect companion for illustration students around the world. Hundreds of images from a wide variety of contemporary illustrators explore how successful creators work with depth of knowledge and understanding of their subjects. By looking across examples from around the world, readers gain an understanding of: - Visual metaphors - Storytelling and narrative - Truth and documentation - Identity and persuasion - Briefs and development New for this edition is 'Illustrator as Author and Polymath', a chapter which explores the mix of skills that illustrators need beyond a strong visual style they must be problem-solvers, visual thinkers, researchers and communicators. It also reveals how image creators from the world of illustration, visual communication and fine art can illuminate and present exciting and original concepts and ideas related to everything that is current, in the past and in the future. This edition has also been re-designed and contains an expanded glossary and further reading, and up to 30% new imagery, to reflect recent trends in contemporary illustration practice.