Beyond The Jacket
A tale of cover driven discoveries
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Judging a book its cover, ah, it’s a notion that’s both universally cautioned against and in some cases subtly practiced. For me, it’s not just a habit; it’s a reliable compass into unchartered literary territories. I guess I’m quite the rebel when it comes to how a book front cover looks, feels, and even how it talks back at me. Take Rachel Cusk’s and Deborah Levy’s trilogies, for instance - in my humble opinion they are absolute marvels. The covers, adorned with embossed fonts, lure me in, almost promising a story that matches the visual allure. Both writers I discovered due to their bold front covers. I can’t imagine my life without these two epic writers in it. As I’ve written about previously on Substack, Deb Levy is my writing muse. Even though she doesn’t believe in having a muse - I know!! Oh and don’t get me started on what my thoughts are about the design of Annie Ernaux’s book covers. Annie is another very important writer who has influenced my midlife journey and one I might never have stumbled upon.
I’m always curious how book covers, like the ones I’m describing set the tone for the immersive journeys inside. If I had to select my favourite book covers from one of my many book stacks, I’d never get any work done. Not only would I be compelled to reread each of my favourites, but I’d be off on a nostalgic journey, reminiscing to where I was when I first read each book.
And you know what? I’ve often found that my initial instinct, where I am captivated by a brilliant cover, rarely disappoints. It’s led me to discover incredible worlds and profound narratives that might have remained hidden otherwise. I’ve walked past many of Rachel Cusk’s books over the years, not sure if her writing would be too deep for me, as she is known for her epic autobiographical novels. Since reading ‘Outline’ the first novel of the trilogy, I am well and truly mesmerised by her writing.
Speaking of books and covers, I’ve often wondered how each writer plans their own book cover or jacket whichever you prefer. Some new writers don’t get much of a say and others are very specific about the detail that goes into the creative work and final design. Maybe you’re writing a memoir or a debut novel, what story will your book cover tell? How will it resonate with the essence of the pages within? The answers to these questions really intrigue me. Please let me know if you believe in the magic of book covers and why? And if you were to craft your own book cover, what would it look like? Also share in the comments which books you’ve loved the most because of their cover. This is a story in itself.
Until the next time
Take care & stay safe xx