Your Opinion, Let Me Share It

So...

You all have some thoughts on the new cover.  A lot of thoughts.  For those of you who like it... cool!  Thank you!  

For those who don't, I get it.  I mean, I completely get it because your arguments were my arguments six months ago.  Why a photo?  It won't match the other covers on the shelf.  And why THAT photo?  It looks so YA.  People will think it's a book for kids.  And why hardcover?  I hate hardcover!  You can't take hardcover in the bath!

However, I'm now on board with everything because I've been privy to what went on behind the scenes.  And maybe those of you who don't dig it will hate it less if I walk you through the thought processes. 

The original intent was to do a graphic cover like the other books.  The art department worked for months trying to come up with an iconic image that would represent the contents.  They tried polos and socks and skirts and a ton of other plaid stuff and none of them looked right.  Since these are the exact same people who came up with my first three covers, I trusted them when they said they were struggling to create the right graphic and that maybe we should consider photography.  

Around this time the decision was made to publish this book in hardcover, even though it sold as a trade paperback.  I fought the change.  

Hard.  

I mean, every time bad economic news came out, I forwarded this info to my "people" arguing that the economy was in the shitter and that even I wouldn't pay an extra five bucks for my book.

But honestly?  Cost wasn't really my issue.  The truth is I was worried that what I'd written wasn't good enough to be published in hardcover.  I kept fighting, yet I made no headway.  

Finally it dawned on me that my publisher wasn't going to have a change of heart about the issue, so it was up to me to provide the kind of content that was worthy of its hardcover.  That's why I've been in such a lather about this particular book and this particular deadline.  (FYI?  Having a sinking house in the middle of all of this DID NOT HELP MATTERS.)  

I had to get the book to the point where I thought it was worthy, so not only did I write the entire thing, but then I tore it apart and rewrote it.  Twice.  And finally after months of work, I got it to the point where I believe it's worthy.  (Maybe this book wasn't as physically demanding as Such a Pretty Fat, but I guarantee you it was more mentally challenging.)

At last, I had the content I wanted... but there was still the issue of the cover.  I've been reminding myself that I hated the last cover, too, and yet it's been my most successful book to date.  

I guess the bottom line is that I have an awful lot of smart people behind me and their only job it is to sell books.  They keep telling me they love the cover.  And they've yet to let me down so I'm going to continue to defer to their judgment, despite my initial reservations.

Also?  I got a package from my editor on Friday.  She sent me the first batch of the paper book jackets that go over the hardcover.  When they fell out of the envelope, I gasped - not because I hated them, but because they were so much better than what I'd seen on my computer screen.

So maybe the argyle socks aren't officially plaid... but in the context of the actual paper cover, they sure are pretty.

Comments

[Leslie]

At this point in your writing, I'd buy your works even if they were guarded by a moat and Prep-eating crocs. I honestly don't care if it's hardcover or paperback, and I don't believe that hardcover gives you more sustinance as an author. As long as I laugh until my lungs explode, ala Rambo, I'll happily fork over five more dollars for your latest book.

[Julie]

Ok, I revisited the cover. I looked at the tiny picture of it and thought it looked like your other covers, so I paid little attention to the comments flying. I took a second look (and enlarged the picture) and I LOVE IT! It's great. You did a great job, as did your artists!

[Kristin]

My first thought after reading this post was how pretty your signature will look inside my book when you do another reading/signing at BN. Which you will be doing right? And now that you are in the burbs...you will have two in the Chicago area, right? One in the city and one in the burbs for us girls that will gladly trek anywhere to meet you but would love to see you at our local bookstore. Just a thought... :)

[Kim]

I'm psyched about the new book! I was re-reading "Bitter" for about the 15th time today, and there are literally pages falling out. I refuse to loan it out because I'm terrified it will come back missing a chapter. I'm totally on board the hardcover train!

[Amanda]

As a former employee of BN, let me just tell you that people are very willing to buy hard cover - especially if they collect an author's works. No worries Jen! I'll be in line to make the purchase - along with hundreds of others! Your fans are behind you!

[Phyllis]

Okay. Having read through the other comments, I need to make another post.
1. I prefer my books to match, but overall, I prefer hardcover because it will last longer, especially when you share it with several people.
2. I didn't notice that the socks were argyle and not plaid until others pointed it out, so it didn't bother me. Of course, now that I've been enlightened, it does.
3. I haven't seen any comments about this book's subtitle, which is great. I read the title aloud to my daughter over the phone and we both laughed way too loud for our co-workers.

[Tamara]

I'll be happy to pony up the extra bucks for the hardback. Just think....two waves of love love love for your book. First in hardback and then in paperback. I'm hoping it hits the bestsellers rack at Barnes/Noble. They've had some very nice displays of your other books through out the summer. I wish you all the luck in the world...but you won't need it because you are one hilarious chick.

[sheilah]

Well, I don't really love it or hate it. It just confused me. When I first looked at it I saw, yeah, a neckline. Then I came back here and read about legs and argyle socks so I'm all...uh...whaaat and have to look again.

At first...neckline, then after staring some more, *click* yeah!! Legs! Socks! Kind of like those pictures that look like a face and then you look some more and you see pie a la mode or something (okay maybe the pie is just me...).

Am such a tard...

[Kate]

Ok, the only reason I might object to the hardcover version is that I can't shove it in my purse or my camera bag like I've done with the other three books. But as long as the book makes me laugh until I throw up on my cat, I'm good with it.

[Ginny]

It's thoughtful and considerate of you to go into such detail as to the background and thought process which yielded the "Pretty In Plaid" cover. I readily admit I know nothing about selling books, so will just keep my fingers crossed that your publishing team knows what it's doing. Personally, I remain concerned that a book with a name so close to teen angst movie "Pretty In Pink" and a cover which also appears completely geared to younger teens is going to be accidentally passed over by adult shoppers who are not familiar with the genius of its author. But ... really? ... what do I know?! I will look forward to all the true believers telling me in May, as you once again climb to the top of the best seller lists ... "Told ya so, dumbass!!!". :-)

[Lisa Ann]

Jen:
I am so sorry the asshats at your publishers are making you do the hard cover. I have to say I have a grudge against Hard Cover publishers. I LOVE paperbacks. LOVE THEM!! I'm with you on the not spending five extra dollars on a hard cover. Sorry, but tell your publishers that it is their fault that I won't be able to purchase your book until the paper back release. (I won't buy at a used books store as the authors do not get any of the money and that's not fair to the author.)

[SnarkyMommy]

I actually really like the new cover. AND I am a huge fan of hardcover books. Give me a choice between paperback and hardcover and I will pony up the extra cash every time.

[mia]

OK, I am one in a few people who adore hardback books. It gives it weight both physically and figuratively. Now to me the book says its you, both the prep and the professional. Nothing wrong there! Personally , I am jazzed and looking forward to it and to me the argyle plays!

[Lisa]

Yeah, I'm one of the hardcover and argyle haters but I love me some Jen Lancaster witt. I'll deal.

[cathy]

I think your cover is cute, and I can't wait to read your new book!

[amy g]

As one of the most (ahem)... "outspoken" critics of the new cover, I do appreciate you explaining your/your publisher's cover-art-choice saga. I'm glad to know how much time and energy is being put into promoting your always-wonderful work.
I'm sure your publisher knows what its doing... your last 3 books were a huge success... and I should really know better than to question people who were instrumental in putting a literary newcomer on the NYT bestseller list.
That said, I still don't like the photo, but I'll buy the book -- in hardcover -- because I KNOW what is inside will be worth any minor aesthetic or economic discomfort I might suffer! ;->
YOUR WRITING IS FABULOUS -- never doubt that. It's why so many of us had a strong emotional reaction to what we (inaccurately) assumed was a poor, hastily made choice of cover art!
Can't wait to read it -- hope there are dozens more!!

[Whyvoni]

You know, I was one of the ones that hated the cover when I saw it. I'll admit it. But what you wrote today made a huge difference. Now, I don't hate it all that much. It's just going to take some getting used to. I will put faith in your "team" just as you have.

The important thing here though is that we are all going to buy it when it comes out. You're talented, witty, and smart. That's what we love and what we know we'll get when we pick up your books. No doubts there.

[Mandi R]

I, too hate MACs Had one for a week, turned around & sold the bitch. Your cover is great, but who cares about the cover..I want the goodies inside. So your movin' on up to the East Side with your hard cover..you go on with your bad ass self! :o) Cant wait til May.

[Alli]

What really counts is what's inside the wrapper. I know your stuff and I'd buy it if the cover design resembled a paper bag. I'd rather not pay the extra $5 for hardcover either. But, again, I love your work and always look forward to your next book. You are worth it!

[Tanya]

The cover is cute. It will stand out on those "New Release" displays.

[Karen]

I was also so excited about the book that I did not notice the cover. The content is what matters, and you deserve all the success of your fourth book!

[antof9]

The cover is irrelevant to me because I'm already a fan. I'm buying it for what's inside, so the cover is moot.

If I had never heard of you and I saw it, I would have three thoughts:
1. that's argyle
2. I had those socks and the sweater to match them in ... probably 10th grade (and I loved them)
3. This isn't the first book? Take me to books 1-3, Barnes & Noble salesperson! (because I'm anal that way)

That said, I'll wait for the paperback. Not because of cost, but because I don't prefer hardbacks and they can't be carried in my purse. Yay for you for it almost being out!

Ant, Mac hater too

[Rachel]

I don't care about the cover, what's between the pages is what counts for me.

[PaintingChef]

Huh. I never even noticed it was a photograph. Or hardcover. I guess I was too busy clicking the pre-ordering buttons...

[Kari]

To make progress change is essential. I'm on board with the new cover 110%!

[kalisah]

I did not hate the cover. I was immediately taken back by the photo, but I think there's a very fine line between "branding" and "boring."

So what I saw was only a slight change really. You kept the same Jen font, and that ties it in to the look of your other books.

I applaud you & your people for taking a chance on something a little different.

(I probably will wait for the paperback though. Sorry.)

[Sarah]

I LOVE LOVE LOVE all of your books but I HATE and really refuse to buy hardcover books. I mean, a book will come out that I have been DYING to read and I'll wait months for it to come out in paperback. Your smart people are putting me in a tough place!

[Ann]

I've already pre-ordered it. Don't care about the cover - don't lose any sleep over it. Your real fans don't care; we just want to read it!

[Kristabella]

Wow, I didn't realize people would have such strong opinions. I love it, didn't even think about the photo vs. illustration thing and the YA thing never came to my mind.

Also, it doesn't matter. Because you're writing it. So I will buy it. The end.

[Emily Allyn]

I want to apologize for saying I hate your cover and the fact that it was a hardcover last week. I have thought the matter through, and realized that I will buy anything and everything Jen Lancaster! Jen, I bring you up as an example of good memoir writing in my publishing classes all the time. Keep it up!

Plus, I figured that even if I buy the hardcover, I can read it, love it and buy the paperback when it comes out and give away the hardcover as a gift!!!

[Heather]

Personally, I love the cover. It's something that will stand out amongst the other books on the shelf at B & N. IfI didn't already read every book you have the day it releases, the cover would make me pick it up for further inspection and the witty description would make me buy it. I always say that it's a good cover that makes me buy a book by an author I'm unfamiliar with and you have a good cover. So, there. My two cents :)

[TheBabblingHousewife]

It looks good! And it's your blasted book...do with it as you wish.

[badwich]

I agree at the end of the day, a book by you in any form is grand, but I'll still wait until it's on the remainder table to buy it in hardcover.

[Sally]

I like the cover. And I don't generally buy books based on the cover but on what I've heard about the book or the author so if I disliked it, I'd still buy it. Also, a book with socks on it is far less embarrassing to read in public (like on a bus or a train or in the airport) than a book with unmentionables on it - even if the unmentionables are a drawing.

[Kathy]

So I typed in "Pretty in Plaid" into the browser on Amazon and picked the one that DID NOT say your name after it and I ended up on a page that sells "Pretty in Plaid" Barbie. hmmm....anything we should know? Congrats on the new book. The cover is fab and I will buy your books no matter what the cost!

[Shannon]

Just make them publish it already. Cover, schmover.

[Amy]

Seriously, I can't believe no one has come right out and said it: "you can't judge a book by its cover."

Can't wait for the new book! The cover is adorable, but it will come off immediately after I get my copy as do all of my hardback covers.

[x]

I don't think price will stop people (myself included) from buying your next book. And with all the devoted fans you have promising to buy it, we may just be able to give the sagging economy a little boost. Consumer power!

[Brittany]

I think the cover looks good. It may be a picture, but it still goes with the theme of the other covers. I don't really care about having to spend more money on hardcover, but I'm a little OCD and it not fitting in my headboard/bookshelf is going to drive me nuts! Will it come out later in soft cover? I'll still buy it in hardcover, read it, then donate it if I can find it in soft cover just so it will fit with my other ones.

[sue Treiber]

I think it fits in nicely with the other covers.
Besides, I'm going to buy it regardless of plaid or argyle.

[Amy Risner]

At the end of the day, it is still a book, written by you. That is all that I care about. Your books have honestly helped me through some crazy days, and I'm really looking forward to this one!

Plus, I think the cover is pretty :)

[PDXprincess]

I think the socks are super-cute. I'm sure the book will be hilarious as are the others. Can't wait!

[Rose]

Congratulations again!!

I'm really looking forward to reading the book and I have genuinely enjoyed following your efforts and struggles through your blog. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of that. It has given me real insight into what goes into a project like this.

[Autumn]

um...don't have time to read the other comments so if this has been said before...I salute you.

Jen, I'm sold on your work, regardless of the cover. Fans are called fans for a reason. Yes, I can be as discriminating as the next girl, but have to say - don't really care so much about the cover or whether it matches (and I am one of those still upset that I don't have all of Gregory Maguire's books in hard cover) - just glad to know you sweated out the writing. :)

[Lauren in MI]

I absolutely love it! It is beautiful and will look fabulous next to all of your other books on my bookshelf. :)

[Jenn]

For anyone who wants to see the cover again --

http://www.amazon.com/Pretty-Plaid-Condescending-Egomanical-Self-Centered/dp/0451226801/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1227550703&sr=8-1

[L.]

It doesn't matter what the cover looks like, hardcover or paper back, your book will be awesome. I look forward to forcing my husband to continue supporting my book habit.

[Jenn]

I could not care ANY less about the cover. I don't care if it's covered in a brown paper bag. I'm all over this book when it comes out and I will continue to whore your entire body of work to friends and family whenever possible. I'll loan them "Such a Pretty Fat," and they too will in turn buy all your books. That's just how it goes.

Also, I pay for that BS Barnes and Noble membership, so those bitches better hook a woman up with a coupon come May. I'm buying the book. Hardcover. Softcover. No cover. Plaid, argyle, ponies... don't care. Buying.

[Kristy J]

the new cover is great, i LOVE it!!! i can't wait for the new book to come out!!!! and the most exciting thing ever is i'm actually going to be in the chiacgo area when it comes out, i might get to meet you YAY!!!! i can't wait!!!!!

[Sheila]

I think the argyle socks are cute. Although, in homage to your clever "dirty shirt" costume, I am hoping for fornicating Lacoste alligators on the next cover...