Illustoria 17 - Senses

Illustoria is a print magazine for creative kids and their grownups, designed to help kids slow down and enjoy stories, art, and activities; and as a counter to our fast-paced, digital age. Illustoria celebrates visual storytelling, makers, and DIY culture through print and beyond.

Illustoria is a collaboration between McSweeney's and the International Alliance of Youth Writing Centers, an informal network of organizations around the world who share the belief that young people need places where they can write and be heard and have their voices polished, published, and amplified. In every issue of Illustoria Magazine, students from these centers contribute their own writing and art and conduct interviews with the artists and others profiled in these pages. The Alliance’s goal is to get more young people published and to let readers of all ages see just how much young people have to say.

Issue #17: Senses explores all that we can see, hear, touch and taste. You'll want to absorb the 64 pages of attention-grabbing comics, stories, and DIY projects that traverse gardens of earthly delights, recipes with Dog Chef and Broccoli Guy, the visual art of optical illusions, and the best smellers among the world of creatures. Read interviews with cover artist Michael DeForge and a host of sensory experts, such as tea tasters, sound engineers, and perfume makers. Guest curator Lauren Tamaki invites a host of new artists to join all your familiar favorites.

Reading age: 4-12 years

Grade level: 1-7

International Alliance of Youth Writing Centers, 2022, softcover, 8.5 x 10.5 in, 64 pages.