There is a saying that you should never judge a book by its cover, but I suspect it's something we all do. What's on the jacket has a huge impact on how many potential readers will pick a book off the shelf, (or click for more information). While I own many books with artwork I don't particularly like, I'm fairly certain I would never have picked them up, had I not already been a fan of the author. It makes me wonder how many great stories I've ignored because the cover didn't grab me.
I've spoken to school librarians who offer students "book blind dates"—covering the jackets with brown paper, so the reader has no preconceptions or prejudice against what might be inside. It sounds like a great idea, and places focus back on the content, rather than the smoke and mirrors of packaging and marketing hype!
I recently received the cover roughs for my next young adult novel (due out next year). I was delighted—the artwork perfectly captured the mood of the story, and had the right balance of intrigue and information. I'm afraid I can't share it with you just yet—the book itself is still in progress! Instead, I thought I'd put together a top ten of favourite covers from my bookshelves.
 |
Simple eye-catching design that
captures the essence of the story. |
 |
Humans are drawn to faces. The eyes in this
seek you out across the bookshop. Brilliant. |
 |
The spoof diary cover has been popular.
I think this one works really well. |
 |
The book is filled with atmosphere and
a great sense of time and location.
This cover captures it perfectly. |
 |
Dated by the furniture perhaps, but I like the way the
kids look like real kids, unlike the airbrushed models
appearing on many current young adult novels. |
 |
Another retro cover, but one of
my favourites. Eye-catching, and sums
up the mood and subject of the story. |
 |
| A classic cover for a classic adventure story. |
 |
Great piece of design this, plus there's something
about maps and pins that screams adventure! |
 |
A great cover for a brilliant book.
The point where all the elements meet
and cut the lizard in two draws your eye. |
 |
I love the simplicity of this.
Exactly the right shade of yellow too. |
It would be interesting to hear your thoughts, so please do leave a comment below.
Dave Cousins writes books for children and young adults. For more information, you can find him on the web at www.davecousins.net
No comments:
Post a Comment