A Carlisle student at the University of Cumbria is on her way to self-publishing a unique, illustrated version of Bram Stoker's iconic novel, Dracula.
Following successful fundraising, Sophie Atkinson's re-imagination of one of her 'favourite' books will be published in time for Halloween after securing over £1,025 on the crowdfunding platform Kickstarter.
The gothic horror, which Sophie has been revamping for her final university project, dates back to 1897.
“It’s been a lot of work, but it’s all coming together," she said.
“Looking at the digital copy, I can’t believe it. I can’t wait to see it when it’s first physically published, it’ll be so cool."
The book, which the 26-year-old has been working on since the beginning of the year, will be complete with around 35 unique illustrations and a ribbon bookmark.
“I was so scared, I thought there would be no way I’d get over £1,000 in donations but it’s made it in four days, it’s been great," she said.
“There’s no copyright on it with the novel being so old, so you can do anything with it really.
“It was one of my favourite books as a teenager.
"Because of my art style, I thought it would fit well.
"I want to do more after this, so I can do the books that came before Dracula and keep going with that style really," she said.
So far, Sophie's illustrated novel fundraiser stands at £1,161.
The project isn't without its perks for donors.
In return for their generosity, backers are promised rewards, including digital copies and autographed versions as well as exclusive Kickstarter rewards such as art prints and more.
The fundraiser will remain open until the end of the month, with more funds bringing more books to shelves.
Further to the project, Sophie hopes to continue in the field of 'historical editorial illustration' and 'self-published book illustration' after returning to the university for a master's degree later in the year.
You can also see more of Sophie's illustrations on Instagram via @sophieatkinson.illustration
To view the fundraiser, visit www.kickstarter.com/projects/badappleprints/dracula-illustrated-novel
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