Everything is moving along smoothly -- at least I think
so -- on the publication for my short-story collection. I'm sure there will be a
surprise or two in the coming weeks.
My
manuscript is still in the hands of a trusted editor. I'm still working on the
blurb. I've consulted some indie authors for advice, and they've also provided
encouragement.
Yesterday, I contracted with Tugboat Design to customize a
cover that I hope will reflect the stories. They requested information about the
stories and my thoughts about the art. They should get back with me in a few
days with several proposals.
As indie
authors and traditional publishers know, the cover is one of the most important
parts in producing and selling a book -- or most media, for that
matter.
We know
when browsing books online, bookstores, and libraries, the cover often is the
first thing to catch our attention. For the consumer, after purchasing/checking
out the book, they want the cover to give some hint as to what's inside. If the
cover doesn't do that, they often believe they've been misled.
No doubt,
the primary goal for an author is to write the best possible book, or short
stories, in my case. But it's often the cover that leads the potential reader to
venture inside to the pages.
Until the
next time…
Call me a boring old f**t but all I look for is my author's name and a title I haven't seen before. The cover is simply an obstacle to get through on the way to the book.
ReplyDeleteI'm much the same way, Roger. I guess the book cover and blurb are important when looking for new authors. And authors do like to get noticed on the shelves. I'm sure you're like me and also read book reviews in NY Times, USA Today, etc.
DeleteAs a worker in a library I find the easiest to see on a shelf are those with the author's name large and clear on the spine. I hate it when I have to search for the name, makes me want to give up and move on. Make it prominent and it catches the eye. Best of luck. :)
ReplyDelete