April 2, 2015

Judging a Book by Its Cover

Let's admit it, a lot of people judge books by their covers. I don't think I do it consciously, but it happens. These days, I know about most books before their covers are even unveiled. But I discover some during cover reveal season - including Cammie McGovern's upcoming fall title and another fall novel from HarperTeen, Future Perfect. If I'm being honest, the covers for both weren't the driving points behind my decisions to add those books to my TBR. Instead, it was all about how interesting I found the synopsis.

Covers do matter to me. There aren't too many covers I hate, thank goodness. Most I tolerate or like. I have a whole Pinterest board of covers I like, if you want to check that out. I don't see a lot of recurring themes, so I guess there's no rhyme or reason as to why I like a cover or don't.

But let's talk cover redesigns. Some work...and some I'm like, "What the heck are you thinking?" Cover redos I like? Anna and the French Kiss, Lola and the Boy Next Door, Shatter Me, and Throne of Glass. I think it's fun that Jennifer E. Smith's first two books are getting cover redesigns this year to match the rest of her books. Ones I don't? I'm gonna be honest. I liked the original covers for Dissonance and Broken Hearts, Fences, and Other Things to Mend and I'm sad they were redesigned.

Do covers play into your decision whether or not to read/buy a book? Do you see any pattern in covers you like? And what are your thoughts on cover redesigns? Leave a comment, and I'll try to reply!

2 comments:

  1. Covers come into play somewhat, but not a lot. As a general rule, I'm much more interested in the synopsis. But . . . there are a few exceptions, like if the cover looks like it was homemade by the author (in a bad way), I'll expect a bit less of the book. Also, if I'm at a used book sale and there's two copies of a book, both in good condition, I will ALWAYS get the one with the cover I like better.
    As for cover redesigns, if I disliked the original cover, all for it. If not, STOP MESSING WITH MY BOOK.

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  2. I have to say I'm less likely to read a book with a hideous cover. BUT since I read so many arcs and have seen so many favorites be repackaged, I do try to judge on the plot summary more than the pretty cover. (I've also been burned way too many times by picking up a book just because of the cover!)

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