I don’t care what my mother said. You CAN tell a book by its cover, particularly if it’s been designed well.

Years ago, I tripped over this video (below) about cover design.

I don’t know what got me thinking about it again, maybe an unveiling snapshot of Summit Press Publisher’s latest release (or soon to be, anyway), sent to me by the excited author. Talk about a cover that’s just so spot on.

Anyway, not only is this Ted talk entertaining, it gives true insight into what actually goes into the whole book cover thought process.

Sorry, you just don’t slap any old thing up and call it a day. Particularly if you mean to draw in readers, give them a preview of what they’re in for.

Even if you’re not into cover design–shame on you–you’ll enjoy this talk nonetheless. Chip Kidd is so entertaining.