It is a real pleasure to be invited to participate in this month's RAVE REVIEWS BOOK CLUB’S "SPOTLIGHT" Author Blog Tour.
September's "SPOTLIGHT" Author is Karen Ingalls.
Enjoy reading her blog post on the subject of BOOK COVERS.
September's "SPOTLIGHT" Author is Karen Ingalls.
Enjoy reading her blog post on the subject of BOOK COVERS.
BOOK COVERS
The book cover is what attract me first, then the title. It is true that we should not judge a book by its cover, but I believe many of us do just that. Just as with the title, the cover should bring out an emotion of curiosity and interest.
In the nineteenth century and earlier, a book cover was usually plain. There was no scenery, photos, or colorful backgrounds. For hundreds of years, book cover's sole purpose was to protect the expensive and fragile pages. Some were covered with jewels, silver or gold. It was during the Arts and Crafts movement at the turn of the twentieth century that book covers had artistic and creative covers.
I am glad that there is recognition for those artists who design book covers. It is a remarkable talent that can help to make or break a book. I have been blessed to have two talented people design my book covers. Each cover fits the title and content so perfectly. I often get tears in my eyes when I look at them.
The book cover is what attract me first, then the title. It is true that we should not judge a book by its cover, but I believe many of us do just that. Just as with the title, the cover should bring out an emotion of curiosity and interest.
In the nineteenth century and earlier, a book cover was usually plain. There was no scenery, photos, or colorful backgrounds. For hundreds of years, book cover's sole purpose was to protect the expensive and fragile pages. Some were covered with jewels, silver or gold. It was during the Arts and Crafts movement at the turn of the twentieth century that book covers had artistic and creative covers.
I am glad that there is recognition for those artists who design book covers. It is a remarkable talent that can help to make or break a book. I have been blessed to have two talented people design my book covers. Each cover fits the title and content so perfectly. I often get tears in my eyes when I look at them.
I searched out various graphic artists who had been recommended. I quickly chose my graphic artists based on their previous works and how well we communicated. One might also look at the name of a designer on a book that is appealing, search for Google book designer sites, or ask authors for referrals. And there is always the opportunity to self-design the cover
It does cost more money to have a qualified and gifted artist, but I believe that investment is well worth every penny. It is a representation of your skill and talent as a writer. You do not have to be like me and get teary-eyed, but you do want to be proud of it.
| Karen Ingalls is an award-winning author, blogger, and a retired RN with a Master’s Degree in Human Development/Psychology. She is also a public speaker, fundraiser, volunteer, and advocate. Ms. Ingalls is currently working on her third novel, a series of short stories, and a special story written for each of her eight grandchildren. Ovarian cancer her been a part of her life for the past ten years, but “it does not have my life.” By birth she is a Californian, her heart is in Minnesota, and now a happy golfer and gardener in Florida. She loves to read, knit and crochet, but writing is her true passion. |  |
