The Art of Judging Book Covers

I recently polled my Instagram and Facebook page readers about what they like on book covers—scenery or people. Scenery was the top favorite. I also got several comments that it depends on the genre (totally agree), that colors are important (definitely!), and a couple that they like pets on the cover.

I’m curious, what attracts you to a book cover?

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Don’t judge a book by its cover – or should you?

We all know that old saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover,” but let’s be real—how many times have we picked up a book purely because the cover caught our eye? Guilty as charged!

Book covers are more than just pretty pictures slapped onto a binding; they’re carefully crafted visual narratives that aim to draw us in, tantalize our imagination, and hint at the wonders within.

The cover of a book is the beginning of a conversation between the author and the reader. ~ David Pearson

Book cover examples

Research actually shows that covers play a huge role in our book-buying decisions. According to BookNet Canada, “Nearly 70% of book buyers surveyed in Canada said the cover design is important in their decision to purchase a book.”

But what makes a great book cover? Is it the bold typography, the striking imagery, or maybe the clever use of negative space?

Well, it’s a bit of everything. Graphic designer Chip Kidd, known for his iconic book covers, believes, “The best book covers are the ones that make you stop in your tracks and want to know more. They ignite curiosity and intrigue.”

Take the shark on the front of Jaws, the T Rex on Jurassic Park, the burning man on Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 – what reaction do they strike in you?

The cover of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby is iconic. Those haunting eyes hovering over a cityscape perfectly encapsulate the novel’s themes of ambition and illusion.

My book covers

I designed my book cover for Birds Alive! and then my amazing publisher did all the magic to make it just how I wanted!

What I did was check other cozy mystery covers to see what’s popular now (see the next section on the evolution of book covers). I think the background conveys mystery, not to mention that bloody knife.

Also, see that bird up in the top left corner? That’s a quetzal—my dad’s favorite bird. Book 2 in the Empty-nesters Cozy Mystery will be released in February 2025, and its title is Where’s the Quetzal?

The evolution of book covers

Trends in cover design evolve over time. What was popular a decade ago might not resonate today. As designer Peter Mendelsund notes, “The best covers are not always the ones that are in step with the times. They’re the ones that take the times and bend them to their own purposes.”

So, the next time you find yourself browsing the shelves or scrolling through book recommendations, take a moment to appreciate the cover art. It’s not just decoration; it’s a visual gateway into the world of stories waiting to be explored.

And remember, it’s okay to judge books by their covers—just make sure you open them up and explore the worlds inside too. Happy reading!

Before you go!

I’d love to know what you like in book covers. Certain colors? Animals? Landscapes? People? Let me know in the comments!

Read Crafting Unforgettable Characters, then follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram, and subscribe to my newsletter to keep up with news about my book and any special offers! Be sure you grab your FREE 10-step checklist to plan your novel when you subscribe!

Hi, I’m Jen! I’ve been married for over 37 years, have 5 amazing kids and 3 adorable grandkids. I homeschooled our three youngest children, and I used to blog about homeschooling. I also taught Oral Communication as an adjunct instructor for over 5 years.

Jen Dodrill Writes is born of a passion of mine – to write a novel! My first cozy mystery, Birds Alive!, released Feb. 27, 2024!

When I’m not working, you’ll find me writing, spending time with my family, or curled up on the couch reading and drinking a mug of dark roast coffee. (Don’t forget to check out my mug shop – JDMugs!)