Mystery Writers Forum

The Business of Writing => Publishers => Topic started by: Paul Kuczynski on July 18, 2008, 11:06:20 AM

Title: Book Jackets
Post by: Paul Kuczynski on July 18, 2008, 11:06:20 AM

Hi all,

I haven't posted anyting in AGES, but hopefully this question is relevant to someone else as well.

How do book jackets get created, or probably more specifically, designed.  I've seen some photography that would make excellent book jackets.  Does the published contract with someone for this, or does the publisher have their own art department create jackets?

Thanks in advance.

=Paul

Title: Re: Book Jackets
Post by: Kathy Wendorff on July 19, 2008, 09:36:50 AM

Paul, this is totally secondhand -- but I think it depends on the publisher. I've heard some authors mention that their small publisher used stock images to create their cover (And been quite pleased with the result). Big publishers certainly have their own art departments. My guess is you could offer ideas for your own jacket, and a smaller publisher might or might not use them -- I imagine a big publisher would be infinitely less likely to listen.

I have heard that there are all kinds of issues in catching the buyer's eye which the marketing and art people consider, and most wordsmiths are clueless about.

Kathy W.