2012 Holiday Gift Ideas - "Art of" Books

As my wife will tell you, it's extremely difficult to shop for the pop-culture geek in your life.  That is why, my dear readers, I've decided to dust off the ol' recommendations list and give you some great ideas to appease the discerning animation buff in your family.  Hope it helps, and feel free to leave me a comment if you have any additional recommendations.  Clicking any of the images will take you to amazon.com, which helps me provide new content for ChimChum.com.  Here we go:

I have a particular fondness for "Art of" film books.  I think it's a shame that general audiences never get to see the breathtaking artwork that leads up to the creation of an animated film.  There's been a great assortment of these books in 2012.

The Art and Making of Hotel Transylvania
The film was fun, even if it didn't take its story seriously.  Great character designs and some absolutely breathtaking concept art by Marcello Vignali. This book is well executed and might just surprise your giftee.  An unexpected treat.

The Art of Disney/Pixar's Brave
Another feast for the eyes, though probably not unexpected.  Continuing the great tradition of Disney Art books, this one doesn't disappoint.  There's great insight into production here, with a great emphasis on story art.  A great choice for the storyboard artist or fairy tale lover.

The Art of the Rise of the Guardians
A recent release from Dreamworks Animation.  Features some interesting takes on classic fantasy characters.  One of their strongest efforts to date, and the book's representative of this.


The Art of Wreck-It Ralph
Another great archive.  This is THE book to buy if your animation fan is also a video gamer.  Some great artwork with a particular nod to digital culture.



The Art of Madagascar 3:  Europe's Most Wanted
While this is the third film in the franchise, the real star of this book are the character designs for the circus animals.  Arguably the best artwork and design for the entire series to date.  A great idea for your animal lover.


The Art of Monsters, Inc.
Back in print after nearly ten years, this is one of Pixar's greatest achievements and most unique art book.  Previously selling for as much as $200, this is one you'll want to make sure you grab before it disappears again.


Next I'll discuss some DVD, CD, and collectible suggestions.  Happy shopping!