Marilyn Kallet I'm a poet and children's book author, translator and essayist.

How Important is the Author's Photo on the Book Jacket?

November 1, 2008, 4:24 pm

Marilyn Kallet

Had an offer from a professional photographer to do a book jacket photo for "Packing Light," the new poems.  I was disappointed by the results.  Tell me what you think.   The look I'm after is Jewish poetry goddess (I know, I know, we're not supposed to look for graven images).  

This photo makes me look like one of those big black-and-white cookies from the old Jewish bakeries in Brooklyn.  My father used to bring them home after late-night stops on his route.   He left them in our "good fairy bowl" for my sister and me to find when we woke up.   Is looking like a cookie a bad thing? 

 Marilyn

cheryl.jpg

Cheryl L Snell says:

Not to worry, Marilyn--

 The stark color scheme points up your beautiful face, and goes with the cover design, I think. Besides, being called Cookie is a lot better than being called Toots!

Back to NaNoWriMo...

 

Cheryl Snell www.shivasarms.blogspot.com

Poetry Performance at Columbia University

Marilyn Kallet says:

You are now elevated to sainthood.

That's right, your kindness has raised you up in my humble opinion.

Thank you!  May your gentleness come back a thousandfold to bless  you-- Marilyn 

BY HAND

Dale Estey says:

Arrowroot it Ain't

Although I'd be attracted by a 'cookie', that isn't what catches the eye in the photo. It's the stark black-and-white contrast, even though there is also colour. This gets the attention of a viewer, which is what book covers are all about.

Poetry Performance at Columbia University

Marilyn Kallet says:

You are a kind man, a true gentleman.

Your comment made me feel a whole lot better!  Thanks, kiddo!

Marilyn