I'm realizing that I misread Keith's comment earlier. I think he's talking about light-on-dark text, which is often harder to read in smaller sizes. In the size you've illustrated, I certainly don't think it would be a problem for the title and your name, and I think the subtitle text is short enough that it wouldn't be an issue -- but I've only got an academic background in usability and visual perception, not actual on-the-ground experience, so I'd give more weight to Keith's opinions.
I see. Well, the book is going to be 8.5 by 11. So I think the cover is going to be big enough where the print will be visible as I was very mindful that many of my readers are going to be much older than me. I am 46.
Because portrait is much narrower, and to fit the title all on one line, I have to shrink it considerably.
I don't see the actual word 'coin' or 'coins' anywhere - when search engines and store sites index books, they will use the words that are visible at first glance - you will increase the book's exposure and potential sales by mentioning the 'coin' subject on the cover, or maybe insert the word 'Numismatic' between '125' and 'Freaks'. (If you were to read your cover out loud to a random person, would they know exactly what the book is about?) - BTW, I like the word play with 'Die', which only true numismatists will 'get' Just my
I'm not talking about changing the font of the title, just the font for your name. What am I missing? ~ Chris
I changed the sub-title by taking out "Freaks & Oddities" and replaced it with "Error Coins" and switched the quarter with a better example. Again, excellent suggestion to include the word "Coins" (and I threw in "U.S.") so I can be found easier in a search.
I'm so sorry! When I went back to the thread I realized I missed part of the message - new design - most definitely! I hope your book is a hit and I'll come back to you for an autograph!
I am in agreement with everyone else. I prefer the new design as it just seems to command your attention.
+1 for the new design as well as adding the word coin to the sub. I also like the portrait orientation as opposed to landscape. In the landscape orientation I find that the longer page is too floppy and prone to more rips and tears.
The new design rocks, hope you get a publisher soon, that looks like a really interesting book. Does the book discuss the pricing issue of errors?