The Tote Bag by Jitesh Patel may seem like a book about bags, but is really about illustration, graphic design and good looks. Textile bags of every size, shape and pattern are replacing the ubiquitous plastic carrier bags that are too easily disposed of, and we each have our own favourites. Patel blogs about tote bags from all over the world, including those in his won large collection, and a selection of the most "striking, inventive, ironic and original" make up this book, also with notes about the designers. The book also includes a bag designed by Patel, which is what caught the eye of this particular bag lady.

Paperback, 160 pages. Laurence King Publishers, 2011. $16.47 at Amazon.

+ The Tote Bag at Amazon