Quick Take

Why do some book covers instantly grab your attention, while others never get a second glance? Fusing word and image, as well as design thinking and literary criticism, this captivating investigation goes behind the scenes of the cover design process to answer this question and more. NAMED ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR BY THE NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEWAs the outward face of the text, the book cover makes an all-important first impression. The Look of the Book examines art at the edges of literature through notable covers and the stories behind them, galleries of the many different jackets of bestselling books, an overview of book cover trends throughout history, and insights from dozens of literary and design luminaries. Co-authored by celebrated designer and creative director Peter Mendelsund and scholar David Alworth, this fascinating collaboration, featuring hundreds of covers, challenges our notions of what a book cover can and should be.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: The Look of the Book: Jackets, Covers, and Art at the Edges of Literature

Introduction

The Look of the Book: Jackets, Covers, and Art at the Edges of Literature is a fascinating exploration of the art and design behind book covers. Co-authored by Peter Mendelsund, a celebrated designer and creative director, and David Alworth, a scholar, this book delves into the world of book cover design, examining its history, trends, and the stories behind notable covers. With hundreds of covers showcased, this captivating collaboration challenges readers' notions of what a book cover can and should be.

About Peter Mendelsund

Peter Mendelsund is an associate art director at Alfred A. Knopf and a recovering classical pianist. His designs have been described as some of the most instantly recognizable and iconic book covers in contemporary fiction. Mendelsund brings his expertise and passion for book design to The Look of the Book, providing readers with an insider's perspective on the world of book covers.

Analysis of Views

In-depth analysis: Readers appreciate the depth and breadth of The Look of the Book, as it goes beyond superficial observations to delve into the technical aspects of book cover design. The authors provide detailed explanations and real-life examples, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the process and factors that influence cover design.
Academic writing: While some readers find the academic nature and pedantic language of the book challenging, others appreciate the thoughtful and thorough examination of the subject matter. The authors' expertise shines through in their writing, making The Look of the Book a valuable resource for those interested in book cover design and literary criticism.
Visual appeal: The book's presentation is widely praised for its stunning visuals, which are appropriate for a book about how books look. The inclusion of numerous covers from various time periods and genres adds to the overall appeal and makes The Look of the Book a beautiful art book for book lovers.
Inspiration for collectors: Readers who appreciate book covers as works of art find The Look of the Book to be a compelling read. The book's focus on covers as art makes it a must-have for collectors who want to learn more about the design process and appreciate the beauty of book jackets.
Interest for bibliophiles: For those who love books, The Look of the Book offers an engaging exploration of book covers as an extension of literature. The authors examine how book covers are designed and why they are designed the way they are, making it a fascinating read for bibliophiles looking to expand their knowledge beyond the text itself.

Reasons for Recommendation

In-depth analysis: Readers recommend The Look of the Book for its comprehensive analysis of book cover design. The detailed explanations and real-life examples provide a deeper understanding of the subject matter, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in literature and design.
Visual appeal: The stunning visuals in The Look of the Book make it a visually appealing read. The inclusion of numerous covers from various time periods and genres adds to the overall aesthetic appeal, making it a beautiful art book for book lovers.
Inspiration for collectors: Bibliophiles who appreciate book covers as works of art find The Look of the Book to be a compelling read. The focus on covers as art makes it a must-have for collectors who want to learn more about the design process and appreciate the beauty of book jackets.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Limited scope: Some readers feel that The Look of the Book has a limited scope, focusing primarily on medium-old books rather than exploring more recent trends or ancient ones. This may limit the appeal for those interested in learning about modern book cover design or ancient practices.
Lack of "pretty covers": A few readers express disappointment that The Look of the Book does not address the role of beauty in book cover design to a greater extent. While some stunning covers are featured, others feel that more attention could be given to covers that are considered works of art or that instantly grab readers' attention due to their visual appeal.

Conclusion

The Look of the Book: Jackets, Covers, and Art at the Edges of Literature is an engaging exploration of book cover design that delves into its history, trends, and stories behind notable covers. Co-authored by Peter Mendelsund, a celebrated designer, and David Alworth, a scholar, this book offers readers an insider's perspective on the world of book covers. With its in-depth analysis, stunning visuals, and fascinating insights into literature and design, The Look of the Book is highly recommended for bibliophiles, collectors, and anyone interested in understanding the role of book covers in shaping our perceptions of literature. While some readers may find it challenging due to its academic nature or limited scope, its overall appeal lies in its ability to inspire and educate those who appreciate books as works of art and literature.