Graceland is a work of art by Chuck Murphy. He has created an
interactive pop up book that takes the reader right into the heart of
Elvis' Graceland. There are nine separate, two pages spreads on various
aspects of the famous home in which Elvis resided from 1957 until his
death in 1977. The spreads include, among others, scenes of his
kitchen, Jungle Room, his hobbies and wardrobe. As the pages are turned
the scenes grow from the pages into three dimensional splendor. The
sides of each page also open to expose more information with more pop
ups. But it is the details on the pop up pages that are the glory
of this book. 'Walk' through the TV room and change the channels on the
tv, rifle through Elvis's record collection. Then open the side flap to
pop out his bar and pull the tab to reveal his hidden movie
projector. The section on his exhibits (added to tours of
Graceland in 2000) have 5 flaps that open to show a case holding his
firearm collection, samples from his law enforcement badge collection
(which numbered in the hundreds) and even a removable paper replica of
one his famous sunglasses. The refrigerator and cupboards in the
kitchen scene opens, the related text includes a list of items Elvis
insisted be kept stocked at all times. Each themed scenario is
equally complex and complete.
This book is a collectable for both Elvis fans and connoisseurs of the
art of paper engineering or pop ups. Elvis fans will love the inside
look at his beloved home. The accompanying text, including a foreword
by Pricilla Presley, gives plentiful information on Elvis, his life and
his home. The photographs and 3-D representations are the next best
thing to a trip to Memphis. It is the ultimate, unique gift for
Elvis fans.
Art lovers will be fascinated by the intricacy of the paper
engineering, the amazing construction of each display and the inspired
detail that is included. Pop ups are a visual art form that takes the
traditionally flat media of literature and expands it into dimensional
beauty. Murphy uses his expertise in the form to bring life to the
story of Graceland.
Chuck Murphy has created over 60 books, many appealing pop up books for
children.
