JAGGED LITTLE PILL
You Live, You Learn
Patient
- Melcher Media
- Grand Central Publishing
Treatment
- Design
- Photography
Diagnosis
This book offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the Tony Award-winning show, featuring stunning photography and original, in-depth interviews with the cast, crew, Alanis Morissette, and Diablo Cody. It includes a personal introduction from Morissette, detailing her album’s origins and its evolution from release to the acclaimed musical, along with insights and anecdotes about her collaboration on the show. The book also features the full annotated libretto and a retrospective on Alanis’s artistic influences, the cultural significance of the album in the 90s, and its lasting impact on the music world.
• 8 x 11.75 • die-cut and foil stamped cover • 224 pages, 4-color hardcover book
The book was conceived as a family photo album that’s been violated to expose the underlying issues each character faces behind their perfect suburban façade. A hole is cut through the cover to reveal the title, with strips of song lyrics pasted across the cover and endpapers.
The book begins with a lengthy photo essay that details each family member's personality, problems, and relationships with one another.
In an unconventional move, the foreword and introduction don’t appear until after the first 40 pages, following the photo essay that begins the book.
Various patterns throughout the book subtly hint at the Healy family’s posh suburban lifestyle—Mary Jane’s “Pottery Barn-esque” fabric patterns, Steve’s tie designs, and even Nick’s Christmas sweater.
Informational sidebars are scattered throughout, providing context and raising awareness on the social issues addressed in the show.
The “intermission” spread between Acts I and II features a zine-like handbook. Initially, the plan was to create a 90s-style music zine focused on Alanis and the music of the year Jagged Little Pill was released. However, this concept was ultimately deemed frivolous given the themes of the show and the world events occurring during the book's creation. Instead, it was reimagined as a social justice handbook, urging readers to "Wake Up" and take action by providing information and resources for getting involved.
