A new, expanded edition of a sophisticated album in which literature combines with cartography to take the reader on an extraordinary journey through fifty-five mysterious lands.

In her intriguing mini-essays about islands lost in the vastness of the ocean, Judith Schalansky combines historical accounts, traveler testimonies and scientific data, which, together with subtle full-page maps, create a unique, poetic atlas. Referring to the encyclopedias of islands created since the Renaissance, he invites readers not only to a fascinating journey in the imagination, but also to reflect on the illusion of paradises cut off from the world, the consequences of exploration and exploitation, and threats to fragile island ecosystems.

This wonderful book reaches the real essence of travel - it is no longer nervous and compulsive travel around the world with a popular guide in hand, but a calm and in-depth contemplation of the peculiarities of the world. The term ''finger on the map'' takes on a completely different meaning here - it becomes a very personal, even sensual experience. I agree with the author: cartography should be considered a type of literature, and the atlas should be treated as a volume of poetry. ● Olga Tokarczuk

The first edition of Atlas of Remote Islands immediately aroused delight both with its concept and graphic design. Atlas won the title of Most Beautiful German Book of 2009 and became an international bestseller. It has been translated into 20 languages – and inspired numerous imitators. In the new edition, the author returns to previously described islands to update some information, and also adds five completely new places. The Atlas of Remote Islands is an inspiring intellectual walk along the trail of ideas such as the myth of paradise, wilderness and civilization, or fantasies of ideal communities.

18.4 x 25.9 cm

hardcover

160 pp.