In the fall of 2025 in my CMNS 3450 Applied Graphic Design class, I formatted a print book of Peter Pan and Wendy by J.M. Barrie. I started with the public domain text and used Adobe InDesign and Illustrator to format the novel to print. I was able to include AI generated images using Midjourney to accompany my own graphics and illustrations. We were encouraged to learn how to create proper and effective prompts to better our skills in the advancing realm of AI image generation. In a few months I was able to turn text into a physical print novel.
I used Midjourney text to image generation to create the front and back cover illustrations and chapter illustrations such as the crocodile above. I created each of the chapter drop cap illustrations in Adobe Illustrator to ensure I incorporated my own creative pieces as well. Additionally, I created the Peter Pan and Wendy typography to depict the story in a unique way.
Having the physical copy in my hands, I was able to identify areas that I would improve upon next time and am currently working on a second draft of the novel in my personal time. I am changing the dimensions of the book and formatting the margins more generously to account for page count. I am making these changes to demonstrate my understanding of design.
I honestly wasn’t expecting to enjoy this project as much as I did. In previous classes I always enjoyed working with Adobe Illustrator more than InDesign but I learned to appreciate the intricacy and capabilities of the project. From this experience I am interested in looking more into publishing and literary culture opportunities for future jobs.