Esteban Plazibat / De Morgen / A paperback doesn’t sit on your shelf; it lives in your heart.

Editorial Illustration for De Morgen: Celebrating the Emotional Value of Paperback Books

Esteban Plazibat created a custom editorial illustration for De Morgen to accompany the article, “A paperback doesn’t sit on your shelf; it lives in your heart.” The feature explores the unique emotional connection readers develop with paperback books, highlighting their practicality, portability, flexibility, and the visible signs of wear that reflect a lifetime of reading and cherished memories.

This editorial illustration visually captures the enduring love of books and the personal stories they carry. Through expressive imagery, Esteban brings to life the article’s central theme: that paperback books are more than objects—they become trusted companions that travel with us, collect memories, and hold lasting emotional value.

For Esteban, the commission was a particularly meaningful creative project, offering the opportunity to combine editorial illustration with his passion for literature and visual storytelling. The artwork celebrates the timeless appeal of physical books and their remarkable ability to transport readers to new worlds, inspire imagination, and create lasting emotional connections.