Writing & Illustrating Books in Germany

How is a book created? Who is involved in the process before it hits the bookstores? The author and editorial director Lena Anlauf and the author-illustrator and comic artist Vitali Konstantinov provide insight into the everyday work of bookmaking from different perspectives: from the idea to the exposé, the storyboard, collaboration with a publisher, design and production, to literary mediation.

We warmly invite everyone to join the authors for a conversation about writing, illustrating, and the art of bookmaking – and to enjoy a glass of wine while experiencing a glimpse of German book culture.

Lena Anlauf is a German author and book designer whose books have won numerous awards and have been translated into eight languages. She is staying in Reykjavík in March 2026 as Writer-in-Residence (Goethe-Institut in collaboration with Reykjavík UNESCO City of Literature). After studying book studies and philosophy, she is now researching historical picture books alongside her writing and working as editorial director
for children’s and young adult literature at the German publishing house kunstanstifter. 
www.wonderl.ink/@lenaanlauf 

Vitali Konstantinov is a German author, illustrator and comic artist. He studied architecture, graphic art, painting, and art history and has been writing and illustrating books
for more than 20 years, which have been published in 40 countries. His work has earned the title "Best German Book Design" and he won the "German Children’s Book Prize 2025" for his illustrations in "Genius Eyes – A Curious Animal Compendium". Vitali also presents his books worldwide at interactive readings and workshops. www.vitali-konstantinov.de