When I finished writing and editing This Year, Lord, I got a modest offer from a publishing house, and it felt like a huge victory. I pictured my book finally getting into the hands of readers. As I read through the contract, though, I was reminded of a fact I had known but forgotten.
The author writes everything inside the book, but the publisher owns the cover.
I called the representative who sent me the offer and asked what the process for cover design would look like and whether I could have any say in it.
“Oh, sure. We can send you a couple of stock photos and you can let us know which one you like best.”
My heart sank. The collection of prayers I’d poured my heart into were likely to be wrapped up in a sepia-toned picture of an apple on a wooden desk. The authenticity on the inside would be packaged in a cliché.
I didn’t need to think about it and call him back. I declined the offer right then.
You may know that for The Dutch House, Ann Patchett asked a Nashville artist to create the portrait for the cover of the book.
If it’s good enough for AP, it’s good enough for me!
I sent a message to Nashville artist and friend, Eric Peters and was thrilled when he agreed to take on my project. I sent him the manuscript, along with notes on the style, tone, and colors I was drawn to.
And I forbid any apples or wooden desks.
Eric got it exactly right. He captured the range of feelings and circumstances that the prayers represent, from elation to lament.
I can’t wait to get the book and its beautiful cover to you later this year!