Biology Today, 1972

I know you’re expecting me to write something about Mother’s Day gifts, being that it is only a few days away here in the US. I thought about it, but I’m quite sure you’re all set with lovely things for her.  Instead, I offer you some sources for inspiration.

(helpful tip: fresh flowers and heartfelt sentimental compliments are much appreciated by most mothers)

Biology Today, 1972

The above two photos are part of a collection of textbook art from the  blog A Journey Around My Skull which showcases an exquisite collection of amazing illustrations from vintage books.

Will, who writes the blog is a self-professed “reader, collector, and amateur historian of forgotten literature.”

(many thanks to Shaving Kit for the link)

If you are a fan of all things mid-century modern then you probably also love the design genius of Charley Harper.  Above is an excerpt from the Giant Golden Book of Biology.

(via Grain Edit)

Der Mensch als Industriepalast (Man as Industrial Palace) 1926

Fritz Kahn was a medical doctor who wrote and illustrated (along with other artists) a series of medical textbooks with these amazing images.

(via The Curious Squid)

In a very loose way this has been a post about Mother’s Day.  Textbooks are flawed just like people but they do serve as a source of information and sometimes inspiration.   One of the great gifts a good mother gives her child is an education.  Simple seemingly mundane repetitive guidance such as help learning to walk, how to tie a shoe, how to pronounce words are just the beginning of a mothers job as educator.

The journey a mother takes in raising a child is just as much a transformation and discovery as the child’s own journey.  Motherhood is miraculous and horrifying both biologically and emotionally.

Give mom love this Mothers Day for all the small and large sacrifices she has made for you.