A Faithful Reader brought it to my attention that I hadn't conducted a "Cover-Off" in a long time, so I thought I'd better get in gear. Once again, I'm picking on Michael Connelly. Why? Because he's one of my favorite authors, and since his books are published in so many countries, it's relatively easy to round up a few covers to compare.
Let's get this show on the road!
Well, what do you think? I find it interesting that the USA/Canada and Australia/New Zealand covers are so similar. A lone figure heading into the surf carrying a surfboard. A dark bank of clouds. And is that the sun going down? Why would someone want to go surfing when the sun's going down? I suppose you could say that it's dawn and not sundown, but when in Los Angeles, you don't head east into the sea.
Even the wording on those two covers is very similar. A slight difference in the sizing and fonts. The placement of the Ballard & Bosch designation changes. And all three chose something a bit different to say about Connelly himself.
On the other hand, the UK/Ireland cover stands out. The surf is rolling up on the beach, and Los Angeles looks like it's baking under a merciless sun. No lone figure with a surfboard. Perhaps the UK publishers didn't want the emphasis to be on Renée Ballard?
Which cover do I prefer? I actually prefer the UK cover. I don't like the misty-looking covers of the USA and Australia. I like the clarity of the UK cover as well as the choice of fonts, their size and placement. For me, there's an air of menace in the UK cover. There's something about the surf rolling up to the blast furnace heat of the city. And the city does seem to be waiting, but waiting for what?
Which cover do you prefer? Inquiring minds would love to know!
Hmm...this is a tough one, Cathy. I do see your point about the UK cover. But at the same time, I kind of like the mistiness in the Australia/New Zealand cover. Hmm.......... I guess the UK cover, but only by a tiny bit.
ReplyDeleteI always like finding out the differences in how other people see the same things.
DeleteDefinitely the UK. It's much more evocative.
ReplyDeleteNow I'm going to wonder if someone is going to prefer the US or Australian covers.
DeleteI like the British/Irish cover as it's more interesting. I'm not sure why the U.S.and Australia covers are so similar, but Australia has the author's name is bigger than the title which is weird. I am glad they all say a Bosch and Ballard book, which I would think that's a selling point.There is going to be a Renee Ballard streaming show starring Maggie Q, and another season of Bosch Legacy and of the Lincoln Lawyer series.I can't wait for all three to be online.
ReplyDeleteNeither can I.
DeleteIt's a rare case where I actually like both covers (counting the US and Oz versions as one, since they're so similar). All of them benefit from Connelly's fame, since the publishers don't feel the need to add clutter in the form of a blurb about the book, thank goodness. Renee Ballard likes to go surfing alone after a shift, so the lone figure heading out on the US/Australia covers seems to fit for me, and I can easily imagine her doing so at sunset. I also like the menace of the city in the UK cover, though in some ways it could almost be for a different story. It will be interesting to read this book when it comes out, to decide which cover is a better match
ReplyDeleteI got used to her surfing in the morning since she was part of "the Late Show" for so long.
DeleteI am really curious to learn what "The Waiting" is for.
ReplyDeleteWe're not going to find out for awhile, I'm afraid.
DeleteI know, but the waiting for "The Waiting" will be impatient.
DeleteFortunately, I have plenty of other books needing to be read, so I'll be distracted.
DeleteI originally preferred the Aus. & US covers, though wasn't thrilled with the busyness of all the type spread across the cover. Then I looked more closely at UK and I agree with you, it is the better cover. The font is a better choice and is more condensed. The use of gold for the title was an interesting and attention-getting selection. The city view, as you write, is a tad menacing, especially under the seemingly boiling sun. The lack of people adds to the tension of the title. Who is waiting and for what? We will need to read the book to find out. A very enticing cover!
ReplyDeleteNeedless to say, I agree! :-)
Deleteit'll be available in the U.S. on Oct.15. I think I can hold out for that time. But Michael Connelly's website has more information about the book, and both Bosch detectives are involved. Sounds good.
ReplyDeleteIt does.
Delete