In Prop Man, discover the secret history of the books, cards, letters, maps, and legal papers that play central and supporting roles in many of your favorite films and TV shows—from the diary Nicolas Cage's character discovers in National Treasure 2 to the Pawnee town charter in Parks and Recreation. The man responsible for their authentic look, Ross MacDonald, has led a double life as both an illustrator and writer, contributing to the New York Times, the New Yorker and Vanity Fair, among other national publications, and a designer and fabricator of iconic props for more than one hundred and twenty films and TV series.

In this visual and informative collection, learn about the methods and artistry behind MacDonald's most recognizable props through an interview with design critic Steven Heller and a selection of materials that reveal the process behind the prop designer's meticulous work.