Thursday, December 18, 2008

book writing & the dueling book covers

I'm hanging out at my favorite writing location - the Georgetown public library. It's got a cafe, comfy booths, wifi and quiet. Got 3 more responses written for the book my dad and I are writing. I finally committed to getting my part done by the end of the year, so I better get going - I think I've still got 5 chapters to respond to.

While taking a break from the words, I doodled around with a cover. The publisher has asked my dad for a pass at what he'd like to see on the cover and this is definitely an area where our modern and postmodern points of view collide. His pass is mostly words - I say we need more images. Here's my pass - what do you think?

3 comments:

BacktotheFuture said...

Think of your target audience. If it is an older generation, then more text. If it is a younger generation who are used to the types of images you find in blogs, on facebook etc., then the current cover would be great! For broad range appeal-- simplify. Text, a beautiful, peaceful image. Something that stands out when the book is faced outward on a shelf. What will "suck in the reader"? For me, a visual image that promotes curiosity. The "I want to learn more" image. Hope that helps and not confuses further!s

BacktotheFuture said...

To what audience are you trying to appeal? What is the age group? A younger generation would want the "post modern" cover you suggest with images etc. An "older" generation of theologians might wish for simple text with a peaceful image or image that embodies the questions at hand.
An image that encourages curiosity and invited the reader inside. The one you have might be better on the back of the book...

Kim Wilkens said...

You see the conundrum - it's a resource we hope both age groups can read - each hearing a bit of their own voice while getting a better understanding of the other. Thanks for the comments - I think simplify is the key.