It’s often interesting to compare the book covers produced by UK and US publishers; no matter how similar, there are always some subtle differences which perhaps say something about the disparity in our culture and attitudes each side of the pond. US literature website The Millions has recently posted its annual Judging Books by Their Covers competition, which nicely illustrates this. Unfortunately the US seems to be the winner overall, although Hilary Mantel’s Bring Up the Bodies is one example of a much more innovative, eye-catching UK design:

Needless to say, I prefer the lovely foiled version on the right. The Guardian, however, suggests that all in all the US and UK are pretty equally matched, with some great (and occasionally awful) covers coming from both sides. What do you think? Have you noticed any books where either the UK or US version clearly wins?

Sara Magness, Editorial Administrator