Australian artist and illustrator Nathan Jurevicius.

Australian artist and illustrator Nathan Jurevicius.

The Book of Revelation - John

Revelation fed my obsession with iconography and prophecy as a teenager. I grew up in a very religious family that provided me with study guides to look into the symbols and meanings behind the confusing words of this book. There are multiple meanings to the text, but the artistic inspiration they gave me during that period was invaluable.

Geek Love - Katherine Dunn

After reading this novel, I seriously contemplated contacting the author and collaborating with her on a film and art show based on the story. The disturbing themes and characters infested my brain, especially Arty, a cult leader with flippers for arms and legs who convinces followers to cut off their limbs. Much of the novel focuses on mutation, mutilation and dysfunction - happy reading!

James and the Giant Peach - Roald Dahl

When I think of books that affected me, I always refer to novels by Roald Dahl. James and the Giant Peach is the most memorable of them all (with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory a close second). Though I had a great childhood, Dahl convinces you you're also an orphan, battling the odds against wicked aunts and escaping to a utopia of talking insects.

The Phantom Tollbooth - Norton Juster

In primary school, our class was assigned this book for English. I was fascinated to the point of distraction. I recall one incident in math class contemplating the novel's themes while sketching in my textbook. The teacher furiously grabbed my arm and held up the drawings for the entire class to peruse, explaining the sins of violating margins with non-numeric scribbles.

The Magic Faraway Tree - Enid Blyton

I never get bored of reading The Faraway Tree series. It's such a simple set of books, very episodic and great for all ages. The Magic Faraway Tree is the second book of the series, and my favourite. The different worlds are all beautifully described, and I remember feeling real concern that the exit to the children's everyday life would disappear as the land moved beyond the tree.

Nathan Jurevicius is an Australian artist and illustrator who lives in Canada. He is the creator of the acclaimed Scarygirl series of graphic novels, which use psychedelic images and reinterpreted folk tales about an odd little girl and her giant octopus guardian.