Does it really matter? Yes, I think it does. Occasionally I mention cover art in my reviews, usually either when I think it’s exceptionally good, or more so when it’s exceptionally bad. I completely understand that art and design are subjective. What one person likes, another doesn't. In my humble opinion, I’ve noticed more and more books that appear to lack effort regarding the cover art, especially eBooks. I’m not saying that every book cover has to be exceptionally beautiful or whimsical with over the top graphics, but shouldn’t it at the very least represent the experience we as readers are about to encounter? I feel that the cover art is an extension of the story. Seriously, I’ve seen some covers that have nothing to do with what the book is about. Really random stuff.
Going beyond printed books, just because a book is exclusively available in the eBook format, it doesn’t mean that one should skimp on the cover art. In general, I think the cover grabs the readers attention initially. Personally for me, when I see a interesting cover I am more apt to read the book description, rather it be on the shelf in a store or online. I believe this is also true for the consumer at large. Don’t get me wrong, I have obviously read books with bad cover art, but I believe there are more people who judge the book by its cover than don’t, literally.
How’s that saying go? “You have to spend money to make money”. I totally believe this is true when it comes to business, including the book business. Just like authors spend money on an editor, the budget should include money for good cover art also. Don’t skimp.
With that said, I'm going to step down off my soap box now!
Knowing that art is subjective, what's your take on it? Should some authors (and/or publishers) consider the cover they select more carefully? Or does it even matter? Do you think some authors appear not to be as concerned about the cover art? Or instead, maybe they do care but possibly they have a unique style that may not have mass appeal. If that's the case, should they submit to what appeals to the masses instead?
Going beyond printed books, just because a book is exclusively available in the eBook format, it doesn’t mean that one should skimp on the cover art. In general, I think the cover grabs the readers attention initially. Personally for me, when I see a interesting cover I am more apt to read the book description, rather it be on the shelf in a store or online. I believe this is also true for the consumer at large. Don’t get me wrong, I have obviously read books with bad cover art, but I believe there are more people who judge the book by its cover than don’t, literally.
How’s that saying go? “You have to spend money to make money”. I totally believe this is true when it comes to business, including the book business. Just like authors spend money on an editor, the budget should include money for good cover art also. Don’t skimp.
With that said, I'm going to step down off my soap box now!
Knowing that art is subjective, what's your take on it? Should some authors (and/or publishers) consider the cover they select more carefully? Or does it even matter? Do you think some authors appear not to be as concerned about the cover art? Or instead, maybe they do care but possibly they have a unique style that may not have mass appeal. If that's the case, should they submit to what appeals to the masses instead?
