How do you know when a book cover concept isn't working? In this case study, I share the design journey behind Better Safe Than Sorry? by Dean Klinkenberg—from an initial bridge photograph to a cover featuring a slow boat in Laos. Along the way, we explored illustration, typography, and thumbnail visibility to create a cover that captured the spirit of the book.

When book coach Jo Lena Johnson asked me to design a cover for a menopause book, the creative brief included an unusual challenge: incorporate 67 menopause symptoms into the artwork. Through collaboration, exploration, and a change in direction, the project evolved into a cover that was both informative and visually engaging.

Before a book designer can create your cover and interior, several important publishing decisions must be made. Learn how trim size, paper stock, formats, page count, and distribution choices affect your book's design, production, and overall project scope.

A behind-the-scenes look at the design process for Just A Long Walk, a memoir by first-time author James Gibson. From selecting the perfect cover image to creating balanced typography, this case study explores how thoughtful book design helped shape an award-winning memoir cover.

Curious about how book covers are created? After a friend asked a series of thoughtful questions about the cover design process, I shared insights into how professional book designers work with authors to create covers that fit their genre, audience, and goals.