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Release Week Cover Stories: Along for the Ride by Sarah Dessen
Welcome to the first post of my Release Week Cover Stories extravaganza! (Lovestruck Summer is officially released... tomorrow!) I use the word extravaganza because each day, as I interview a new author about their cover, I will also be giving away a copy of the book we're talking about. To enter to win, just leave a comment about the Cover Story. I'll choose a winner exactly a week later.
Today through next Monday, you have a chance to win a very special Advance Copy of Sarah Dessen's upcoming June 16th release Along for the Ride (which is vintage Sarah Dessen--a touching summer story of love and and friendship and growing up... sigh.) And Sarah is here sharing her Cover Story:
"I knew I wanted my cover to reflect at least one of the major themes of the book: either something involving the night, or bicycles. Maybe even both. Most of all, though, I wanted it to look as summer-esque as possible. Like the kind of book I'd want to take to the beach with me.
"My editor and I discussed a few options. We liked the idea of a diner, or some kind of cafe, at night. The fabulous art designer at Penguin read the manuscript so she had a few ideas as well. The title was in flux at the same time, though, so after we decided on Along for the Ride, we decided to go for the bike thing. It just fit better.
"This was actually the very first time we had a photo shoot specifically for one of my covers. We just couldn't find a shot with a bike that everyone liked. Also I think since some of my other cover images have popped up other places Penguin wanted to be sure this one would be ours alone.
"When I saw the cover, I loved how it captured the idea of summer so perfectly. Because I am a stickler for things matching, though, I was a bit hesitant about the pink dress on a red bike. I was always taught those colors don't go well together.
"There were a LOT of phone calls and emails back and forth between myself, my editor, my agent, and the art department. Everyone had a different opinion, but we all know how important a good cover is. It is worth the stress.
"[The art department] is always really patient with me when it comes to the covers, because they know how important it is to me that the book look just right. They actually did a bunch of comps with the bike and dress different colors, and I realized that the pink on red actually looked best. They were right, it just popped. And now, I can't imagine it any other way.
"I'm really, really pleased with this cover. It just captures that feeling of summer that I was going for. And I love that pink dress. I WANT that pink dress!"
I agree with Sarah! The cover has such a summer feel, and the pink dress looks like it's organza, perfectly blowing in the ocean breeze. What do you guys think? Comment below to be entered to win an early copy of Along for the Ride.
PS-Last week's winner of the early copy of Susane Colasanti's Waiting for You is... Tiff! Send me your address, T.
PPS-Don't forget to enter The Big May Release Contest too. OMG, so many prizes. I'm brimming with excitement!
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Comments (166)
I think the cover is cute, gorgeous . . . and timeless. The outfits look contemporary, but also they could be from the 1950s. And I have to mention it . . . that guy has amazing arms!
Posted by Megan Frazer | May 4, 2009 8:48 AM
I love the classic red and black of the bike. That has summer written all over it to me.
Posted by Molly @ bookhopping | May 4, 2009 9:17 AM
I love the cover I have since the first day I saw it, but only today did I notice the ocean in the background. This cover makes me want to learn how to ride a bike, maybe thats what I will do for my 20th birthday.
Posted by LiLa | May 4, 2009 9:34 AM
Melissa Walker you rule! Cover stories all week!!!!!!!!!!!!
The only think that really bothers me about the cover is the boy's shirt, he looks like a semi-clean greaser or something. It makes it look like it takes place in the 50s (like Megan says), besides that I like the cover! No need to enter me!
P.S. Thanks for enabling comments to be emailed to me, I love being able to follow the conversation!
Posted by Alea | May 4, 2009 9:34 AM
WOW!!
The cover is gorgeous....
I love the classic simple, bike :D
Posted by Amirah | May 4, 2009 9:44 AM
I love the cover! I love that the girl isn't wearing shoes - the small detail conveys the summer theme nicely. Oh, and I definitely want that pink dress too.
Posted by Lauren | May 4, 2009 9:53 AM
Saying that I love the cover is an understatement. Not only does it feels right but something about it make me think of love, in all the right places. It's just...perfect.
Posted by Sylvia | May 4, 2009 10:19 AM
I'm not a girly girl. I don't like dresses and loathe the color pink. Still, the cover totally catches my eye and makes me feel the summer vibe. It reminds me of summer days when I rode my bike all over town.
Posted by Andrea | May 4, 2009 10:25 AM
Oh my gosh! I won the Susane Colasanti book! I've been waiting for it--this is so exciting!
I hope Sarah Dessen is reading this, because I adore the pink and the red together--it perfectly connotes the romantic themes.
Like Alea says, I find the boy's outfit a little strange...but I still think it's a beautiful cover. The old-school bike thing is wonderful. When I lived in Belgium, people used to sit on that back part above the wheel so they could get a ride from their friends...this cover reminds me of that!
Posted by Tiff | May 4, 2009 10:34 AM
I absolutely love this cover. If I hadn't already been planning to pick up a copy (because Sarah Dessen, how can I not?) this would definitely grab my attention.
Posted by Nora | May 4, 2009 10:45 AM
The dress,bike and no shoes definitely give a fun summer time.It reminds me of my best friend with whom I used to ride a bike on the front while eating ice creams.I told her to check the cover of this book and she agrees that it reminds her of our bike rides too.Ah happy days.
Posted by Ozaira Mahin | May 4, 2009 11:09 AM
I totally agree about the pink and red... I mean, traditionally you are supposed to think that they clash, and initially I wondered about the colour combo. But it's completely true that the colours pop together... they definitely make you take notice in a good way. I've loved this cover ever since Sarah unveiled it... it's so cool, and maybe that's partially because it was shot specifically for the book. Either way, I am so excited for this to be released!
On another note, I can't wait to read 'Lovestruck Summer'! =) And as for those three prize books I'll definitely let you know once I've read them... hopefully it won't be too long.
Posted by Ashley | May 4, 2009 11:14 AM
This cover is beautiful and definitely has a classic, summery feel to it... I love it and can't wait to read it!
-Chrissie
Posted by Chrissie | May 4, 2009 11:25 AM
I love love this cover :) Sarah Dessen's books always have gorgeous covers, and this doesn't disappoint in the least. And yes, the pink dress is WONDERFUL!
Posted by Amy H. | May 4, 2009 11:39 AM
This is another cover that grew on me...was kind of apathetic to it at first but now I really like it. And I CANNOT wait to read the book! :)
Posted by Miss Erin | May 4, 2009 11:57 AM
I love the cover! I'm such a fan of Sarah Dessen. The way her covers are so different in what they're made up of, yet they still have the common patch of white faded from the picture, makes a Sarah Dessen book. I'm so excited for the release of Along for the Ride!
Posted by Samantha Pfisterer | May 4, 2009 12:13 PM
I absolutely love this cover! It fits so well with the rest of Sarah Dessen's covers too, which is awesome because they all just have that something about them that reflects the stories :) I'm so excited for this book!
Posted by pepsivanilla | May 4, 2009 12:33 PM
Wow, this cover just screams "summer"! I love it. And I have to agree with previous comments; it's timeless!
sara
sosarora_11 @ hotmail.com
Posted by Sara | May 4, 2009 1:12 PM
love it. it's fun and flirty - the perfect summer combo!
Posted by Jennifer | May 4, 2009 1:25 PM
I know I just won a book (thanks!), but I SO WANT THIS!!! I love Sarah Dessen's books.
Posted by Ellie | May 4, 2009 2:13 PM
I love the cover it looks incredible! I want to read this book so badly!
Posted by Lianne | May 4, 2009 2:34 PM
I love this cover, it's so eyecatching & I can't wait to read it! :)
Posted by Shalan | May 4, 2009 3:01 PM
I absolutely love the cover! It's simply so pretty!
Posted by Diana Dang | May 4, 2009 3:05 PM
I love the cover, it's gorgeous and it goes with the other covers really well. I'm so excited for this book!
Posted by Hillary | May 4, 2009 3:56 PM
I love the cover!! It does remind me of a beach vacation!!
mj.coward[at]gmail.com
Posted by MJ | May 4, 2009 4:18 PM
I love love LOVE the cover! The dress is gorgeous and I wish I owned it. I love how it doesn't show faces because that lets us imagine the characters oursevles.
Posted by Amber G | May 4, 2009 4:39 PM
I love it! I really like the ocean in the background and the guy's muscles don't turn me off either. =]
Posted by Katie | May 4, 2009 4:40 PM
I love this cover! When I first saw it awhile back, I was struck by it! It's so pretty!! I also can't wait to read them book! It's looks awesome.
Posted by Holly | May 4, 2009 4:42 PM
I love the cover. I have seen it so many times but I never noticed the beach in the background. I think it really adds to the summer theme of the cover. I can't wait to read this book!
Posted by Katie | May 4, 2009 4:51 PM
I love this cover! It makes me want to go to my beach vacation, Hilton Head, NOW!
Andrea
Posted by Andrea | May 4, 2009 5:42 PM
I love this cover! It makes me want to go to my beach vacation in Hilton Head NOW!
Posted by Andrea | May 4, 2009 5:43 PM
I always love the covers that Sarah Dessen has on her novels - they always somehow just fit the story so well. This cover is the same way, it's very eye catchy, and even though the guy doesn't have a face - those arms are hot! I cannot wait to get sucked into this book just like all the others!
Posted by Amber | May 4, 2009 6:23 PM
I think the cover is cute too but...
no shoes plus bike= ouch!
Congrats on your release, Melissa! yay!
Posted by Marie | May 4, 2009 6:38 PM
The cover is soooo adorable!!!
It sets the scene of the book and the dress is amazingly spring timey.The cover looks like a romance novel and i think thats why its so apealing.it makes me want to be on the girl on the bike just having an amazing day and never wanting it to stop. ahhhh.
Love forever, Katie
Posted by Katie | May 4, 2009 6:49 PM
That is an adorable dress! What a fresh looking cover!
Posted by JenP | May 4, 2009 6:52 PM
I knew the cover was perfect the moment I saw it. It's a fabulous cover, and the title fits it perfectly. I'm in love with the cover. =)
I can't believe it's tomorrow when Lovestruck Summer will be released! Time flies. :O
Posted by Kate at Read This Book! | May 4, 2009 6:57 PM
When I see the cover, I just think: "CUTE! SUMMER! ROMANCE!" It's just....perfect. Enter me, I'm dying to check this one out! (And I love the dress, I would totally wear it).
Plus I am so excited about Lovestruck Summer! I cannot wait to read it! (: Congrats on the almost-release, Melissa!
Posted by Claire | May 4, 2009 7:42 PM
I really like the cover. I love the dress and the red bike, and I really like the fact faces aren't shown (that can ruin it sometimes for my imagination). I also like the font "Along for the Ride" is in .
Posted by Juanita | May 4, 2009 8:48 PM
The cover is so cute! I think it captures exactly what Sarah Dessen was describing she wanted. The part where she initially worried about red and pink made me laugh. Even though they do normally clash it seems like the perfect fit here.
Posted by Mrs. V's reviews | May 4, 2009 9:08 PM
I love the cover! It's different from her other books and the picture really captures your attention. I think I have a fondness for book covers with no heads!
Posted by Melissa N Walker | May 4, 2009 10:15 PM
I love this cover, I love the title, and I love Sarah Dessen. Oh, and I'd love to win a copy! ;)
Posted by Amee | May 4, 2009 10:32 PM
Cover stories all week? I wanna pass out. First congratulations on the Launch of Lovestruck Summer, you rock : D
And for the cover of Along For The Ride. I love it so much. It portrays the title and the story perfectly. Breezy and cute, especially the bike. I like that the covers of Sarah Dessen books are all the same. They look light but still has an aura of something meaningful.
Posted by Thao | May 5, 2009 12:16 AM
Cover stories all week? I wanna pass out. First congratulations on the Launch of Lovestruck Summer, you rock : D
And for the cover of Along For The Ride. I love it so much. It portrays the title and the story perfectly. Breezy and cute, especially the bike. I like that the covers of Sarah Dessen books are all the same. They look light but still has an aura of something meaningful.
Posted by Thao | May 5, 2009 12:17 AM
Cover stories all week? I wanna pass out. First congratulations on the Launch of Lovestruck Summer, you rock : D
And for the cover of Along For The Ride. I love it so much. It portrays the title and the story perfectly. Breezy and cute, especially the bike. I like that the covers of Sarah Dessen books are all the same. They look light but still has an aura of something meaningful.
Posted by Thao | May 5, 2009 12:18 AM
Cover stories all week? I wanna pass out. First congratulations on the Launch of Lovestruck Summer, you rock : D
And for the cover of Along For The Ride. I love it so much. It portrays the title and the story perfectly. Breezy and cute, especially the bike. I like that the covers of Sarah Dessen books are all the same. They look light but still has an aura of something meaningful.
Posted by Thao | May 5, 2009 12:19 AM
I'm looking forward to reading this book! It looks great. :)
Posted by Angie | May 5, 2009 12:48 AM
I can't wait to read Lovestruck Summer and Along For The Ride!!!!!!!! The covers are so amazing and cute!
Posted by Taylor | May 5, 2009 7:18 AM
I can't wait to read Lovestruck Summer and Along For The Ride!!!!!!!! The covers are so amazing and cute!
Posted by Taylor | May 5, 2009 7:18 AM
I know this may sound strange, but I love that Sarah's covers always just focus on the legs or lower half of the people. It leaves the rest of the character or characters to your imagination. And well, the beach in the background is the icing on the cake. I can't wait to read this!!
Posted by Angie F | May 5, 2009 8:29 AM
I absolutely adore the cover! I can tell just from looking at it that it's a book I would want to read. Go Sarah :)
Posted by Madison | May 5, 2009 9:19 AM
I love the cover, and I think the polka dots on the dress are what really say "fun" to me - that contrast between the 50s-style polka dots and the very contemporary boy's outfit, with the beach in the background, is just so much fun! And oh, I can't WAIT to read the novel. :)
Posted by Steph Burgis | May 5, 2009 9:34 AM
I have to say, this is my favorite cover out of all of Sarah Dessen's books! I cannot wait until I can get it, or maybe even win it. (:
Posted by Halle Hendricks | May 5, 2009 9:46 AM
Great contest and blog post. The cover of Sarah Dessen's upcoming book is great (as usual) lov the pink polkadotted dress!
Posted by Marjolein | May 5, 2009 9:47 AM
I like the cover a lot, and I would love to have the pink dress. And I also think the way the guy is dressed makes the cover reminiscent of the 1950s.
Posted by Kate | May 5, 2009 10:03 AM
That is certainly an interesting process. I think it's neat that it is the first cover Sarah specifically had a photoshoot for.
Posted by Jordan G. | May 5, 2009 10:13 AM
I definitely would adore the pink dress, and the old fashioned bike for that matter. Not to mention that guy! And I know Sarah won't fail in bringing her readers yet another incredible boy to "Sa-woooooon" over, then kick themselves because he's fictional.I also love how its a bit different than all of her other covers, but still keeping that soft, no-faces, Sarah Dessen feel. I'm counting down the days until the release, since of all the things I want most about it, is the book itself!
Posted by Ericka-Jade | May 5, 2009 10:16 AM
I love this cover. I'm sure it will definitely draw readers in. Thanks for doing a story about this Melissa-I've always wondered about the process/work of producing a book cover...very interesting!
Posted by Erin | May 5, 2009 10:22 AM
I love this cover! I can't wait to read this book!
Posted by Sarah | May 5, 2009 10:24 AM
What I love about the cover was it's implication of balance. The pink dress is cute, too ;-)
Posted by Linda | May 5, 2009 10:35 AM
I WANT THE DRESS! I've only just started wearing dresses and don't really know how to shop for them yet, so I only have a limited number. I wouldn't mind having the boy, either...
Posted by Abbey | May 5, 2009 10:35 AM
I like the cover for its implication of balance. The pink dress is cute, too ;-)
Posted by Linda | May 5, 2009 10:38 AM
This cover feels hopeful and optimistic like summer, it gives the feeling that anything could happen. Great cover, looking forward to reading it.
Posted by Brittany H. | May 5, 2009 10:41 AM
I love this cover. It does truly feel summery and beachy with the bright beach in the background. Since i have not read the book yet, The cover makes me interested to learn what it is about the bikes that makes it so significant. I also love the brightness of the cover. It invites you in. I LOVE the pink dress, and it matches well with the theme. I like how the guy and the girl are casually sitting on the bike as well, while facing eachother. It makes me think they're on some romantic adventure that only they would know about or enjoy. This cover makes me really want to read it and find out more. I can tell this is going to be a good one! I wish i could be that girl on the cover!
Posted by Tricia | May 5, 2009 11:04 AM
Love the cover and can't wait to read the book. It definitely has a beach read feel :)
Posted by Erin Fitzpatrick-Bjorn | May 5, 2009 11:17 AM
sarah dessen's book covers always go with her stories - simple and sweet, yet poignant. this one's no different, but i love how the bike is incorporated. not all of her books have elements from the story on the cover - just listen and lock and key are the only ones i can remember other than along for the ride. i also get very excited when i see sarah's name in big letters across the top - her name is bigger than the title! she's really made a name for herself in YA lit. i'm so pumped for the release of this book!
Posted by Brandi | May 5, 2009 12:22 PM
I love the cover! I think Sarah Dessen's books have some of the best covers in young adult literature, so it isn't really a surprise. I like the fact that there aren't any faces, so the reader is free to imagine. Also, it is timeless. Sometimes I'll get a book and it just looks so 80s that I don't want to read it(Yes, I judge books by their covers), but this cover looks almost like it could be from the 50s, and yet it still fits into our ideas of cute from today, and it will probably still look cute 20 years from now.
I'm glad she chose the bike scene instead of the night, because the night wouldn't look as fun or as beachy. The night seems ominous, but this bike beach scene just looks so cute and fun! And I like that the girl is on the bike backwards and seems perfectly happy to trust the boy she's chatting with to hold her up. I want to be that girl.
Posted by Paige | May 5, 2009 12:50 PM
I think the cover is perfect because it mixes new and old with the old style dress which I love with the new feel of a classic white polo. I can't wait to read the story of these two.
Posted by Ashley L. | May 5, 2009 12:52 PM
I love this cover and cannot wait to read the book!
Posted by Bethany | May 5, 2009 12:56 PM
this was a great story!
Posted by summer | May 5, 2009 12:58 PM
I just have to say, I am a huge fan of Sarah Dessen, and am anxiously awaiting the release of this book. I love to ride my bike personally, so I think that aspect will be fun to read about.
I do love this cover...like everyone has said, it's just so summer! The pink dress...the potentional "summer fling" between the girl and boy pictured...the beach in the background. I really do like the pink on red, too.
Congrats on the relase of your new book, Melissa!
Posted by Alexis | May 5, 2009 1:02 PM
The bike is gorgeous. Chrome :)
It looks like his arms are flirting with hers.
And barefeet. On a bike. How summery can you actually get?
Love it.
Posted by Sarah James | May 5, 2009 1:08 PM
How cool is it that they have photo shoots for books!! I didn't know they did that! I love Sarah Dessen and know I would enjoy a copy of Along for the Ride.
Posted by Kathy M Burnette | May 5, 2009 1:20 PM
I really like the cover, and like a lot of people did not see the beach in the background until now. I can't wait to read it! Seems like it'll be a perfect way to kick off the summer!
Posted by Andie Petersen | May 5, 2009 1:30 PM
I love the cover. I love how it just has that Sarah Dessen look to it. at least it does to me i love all of her book covers. And the pink dress is awesome. i just cant wait to get this book and finish it before my son is born.
Posted by lisa coker | May 5, 2009 1:31 PM
I have been lusting after that pink dress since the day the cover came out! Definitely one of the best Sarah Dessen covers to date (and that's a big deal because they're all such winners)...
Also, I totally think the red bike goes wonderful with the backdrop and all. And like someone mentioned up there, the guy's arms are HOTT! (with two t's!). One of my biggest "WANT-TO-HAVE-OMNOMNOM" books this year. Great cover story, Melissa!
Posted by Mya | May 5, 2009 1:38 PM
It's a great cover and the pink and red do really work well together.
It definitely says summer to me.
Posted by Alexa | May 5, 2009 1:53 PM
I love this cover. It is simple but captures the complicated essence of summer so well. Also the bikes almost but not quite touching is a nice way to give us a glimpse into what is behind the cover. I am so excited for this book and will be waiting in anticipation of the release.
Posted by Lauren | May 5, 2009 2:14 PM
I love the haze of the ocean & her bare feet on the pedals are perfect.
Posted by wendy | May 5, 2009 2:25 PM
I love this cover! It definitely looks like a good beach read and Sarah Dessen always delievers.
Posted by Beimnet | May 5, 2009 2:39 PM
I love the cover stories. It's so neat that the editors at Penguin really listened to Sarah Dessen's concerns about the pink dress--and yes, it sure does pop!
Wishing I had a beach vacation to look forward to...
Posted by Clean Simple | May 5, 2009 2:54 PM
I love everything about this cover. The bare feet on the bicycle take me right back to my own childhood/adolescent barefoot bike rides in early summer. The blue jeans and the pink dress just look so perfect against the red bike and the ocean in the background. I know I'm echoing everyone who has gone before me, but it all looks so wonderfully summery, fun and flirty! Another fantastic Dessen cover to draw me into what we'll sure be another equally fantastic Dessen read. I can hardly wait!
Posted by Kerry S. | May 5, 2009 2:54 PM
I think it's a really good cover, I can smell the summer and the beach just by looking at it.
I love the bike and I teally can't wait for the realase date.
Posted by Monica | May 5, 2009 3:03 PM
I really love this cover. Since this is a Sarah Dessen book, I was interested in it before I even saw the cover, but the cover makes me so much more excited about its release. It looks summery and fun and I really just can't wait.
Posted by Hannah R. | May 5, 2009 3:35 PM
Just by looking at the cover you can sense the symbolism that the bike has. Sarah Dessen has a way of turning simple objects into things with such great meaning. The cover of this book looks great and i can't wait to see what it all means.
Posted by Angela | May 5, 2009 3:39 PM
Love the cover! I love all of Sarah's covers, but Just Listen's is still my favorite. Can't wait for this book to come out. I love that it's about summer because it'll be the perfect way to kick off my own summer of reading!
Posted by Tammy | May 5, 2009 3:48 PM
I love the cover! I think the pink dress looks great with the red, even though usually I'm not crazy about those colors either. Can't wait for the book to come out! It's on my calendar!
Posted by Deanna Abbondola | May 5, 2009 4:06 PM
Um, hello? What do I think of the cover? Well its quite obvious: IT ROCKS! I wish I had the skill to make a cover like that!
Posted by Iryna | May 5, 2009 4:19 PM
I love the cover! My favorite part is that you can see the ocean peeking out from behind them. It makes me want to go on a bike ride by the beach (the best kind of bike rides in my opinion). I know this will be another one of Sarah's classic books. I'm so excited to read it!
Posted by Pippa | May 5, 2009 4:30 PM
hey! its emily w and i love sarah dessen and this cover (: its so romantic and summer-y.
Posted by emily wynn | May 5, 2009 4:32 PM
Yes, the cover is great -- although I wince at the thought of riding a bike barefoot! My dad would never let me due to the risk of losing a toe in the spokes...And I have happily retained all 10 toes into adulthood. :o)
Posted by Laurie Slagenwhite | May 5, 2009 5:02 PM
I love how Sarah Dessen worried about the pink dress and red bicycle clashing! She is too cute. I am so excited for this book to come out!
Posted by M.C. | May 5, 2009 5:14 PM
the book comes out on my birthday.
i'm so excited for it.
Posted by robby | May 5, 2009 5:31 PM
i LOVE this cover, and i am SO excited for this book to come out!
Posted by Julia | May 5, 2009 5:35 PM
This cover is perfect! I've been waiting and waiting for this book to come out and I'm so excited for it, nothing is better than a good summer book!
Posted by Nikki U | May 5, 2009 6:05 PM
I love this cover, and all of the covers of Sarah's books. They always leave a very lasting impression on me. If someone is talking about the books, the cover always pops into mind, and I really like that.
I love having an inside look to the covers, because before now I have never really thought about how covers were chosen. I guess I just thought they magically appeared on the book. ;)
Thank you for doing this, I'm really looking forward to reading Along for the Ride, and your new book. :) I love the cover of yours by the way.
Posted by Kayla M. | May 5, 2009 6:10 PM
I really like this cover, and the poses of the two cover models are really interesting.
Posted by Jordan S | May 5, 2009 6:17 PM
I love this cover :) Love the dress too. Sarah and Melissa, you rock :)
Posted by Emily | May 5, 2009 6:25 PM
I absolutely adore the cover! I can't wait for the book to come out:D
Posted by Sarah | May 5, 2009 6:40 PM
I really liked this! Its nice to see how covers come to be made, and its especially cool to see one of Sarah Dessen's covers explained.
I love the dress, the ocean and bike of course. I really love how the colors all seem to pop, the pink dress, the red bike, the baby blue title, Sarah's name in pink. I especially like how the actual title was written, with the first and last words normal, and "for the" italicized. It all just epitomizes summer...and I can't wait to check out your novel...I just need to get some cash to buy it!
I hope whoever gets this enjoys it!
Posted by Leann J | May 5, 2009 6:45 PM
I have a sundress that looks remarkably similar to the one on the cover. Nothing says summer like a pretty sundress! And a Sarah Dessen book, of course.
Posted by Eva | May 5, 2009 6:49 PM
I always love Sarah's covers.
I think it's so interesting that they spent so much time on a detail I think most people would take for granted.
That book cover definitely screams Dessen and summer.
Posted by Lizie | May 5, 2009 6:58 PM
I think the cover give you a clue about the story a perfect titel to go with a perfect cover cant waite until it hits stores :)
Posted by Denise Jimenez | May 5, 2009 7:05 PM
I have to admit that I don't even need to see the cover since the first thing that pops out is Sarah Dessen's name. That's all I need to see and I'll read it! However since this is about the cover I have to say that I love it. It definitely has a summer feel, which I think is perfect for any SD book because I know of her love for summer and the summer has endless possibilities it holds. I also like how it incorporated the story into the picture. And, as everyone has said, I love the pink dress!
Posted by Mandy Hadel | May 5, 2009 7:15 PM
I love Sarah Dessen! The covers have so much words behind them
Posted by Ann | May 5, 2009 7:18 PM
I love this cover. Normally, I think pink and red just don't go together, but it looks so cute! I love all her books, and can't wait for this one to come out.
Posted by Sarah | May 5, 2009 7:39 PM
The cover definitely fits the title of the book. The picture has an easy feel to it which is what I think of when someone or something is along for the ride. I love the pink dress as well. It's too cute.
Posted by Avery | May 5, 2009 7:40 PM
I love this cover! It jumped at me as soon as I saw it. It really does 'pop.'
I absolutely cannot wait to read this book!!
Posted by Erica | May 5, 2009 7:44 PM
I love the cover because it reminds me of my hometown. Small, suburban, and beachy. In the summer when I was younger we used to ride our bikes around all the time. And many were like the red one. Especially around the beach, since my neighborhood was right by the water. I also grew up with a bunch of guys, because the girls in my neighborhood all thought they were too good for me. So the guy in the picture totally fits too. I love how the colors pop and I think it's one of my favorite SD covers so far.
Posted by Erin | May 5, 2009 7:45 PM
I think every bit of this cover is perfect. I love covers that don't show the faces of the models. It makes me feel like it could be anyone. Sarah Dessen's books are a big reason I started to read as much as I do now. I can't even say how excited I am for the release of Along for the Ride!
Posted by Katie | May 5, 2009 8:23 PM
I adore the cover! The color choices make it a happy, summer-y cover, and I have to agree with Sarah Dessen about the pink dress. I also LOVE how the people fade away and they don't really have faces to them. It could be anybody. The red, shiny bicycle also not only brings back memories, but draws everyone in.
I can't wait for the book to be out!
Posted by Carey | May 5, 2009 8:35 PM
At first the cover seemed almost too old-fashioned, with the pink dress, and the bicycle, but I've come to like it. I agree that I've always been taught that pink and red don't go together, but I've learned exceptions.
I'm almost surprised at the story, as there's no exciting element to it, (the story sounds more like "well, it just happened") although there was obviously a lot of thought put into the picture's content. I love the guy's jeans, (the focus on those is very sharp) and the spokes of the bicycle wheel. The lowercase title gives the cover something of a laid-back look.
All in all, nice cover, and calm story.
WingedSkye
Posted by WingedSkye | May 5, 2009 8:56 PM
Definitely love everything about this cover. Definitely think that guy has great arms. :p
Posted by Rachael | May 5, 2009 9:45 PM
This is a fantastic cover! Thanks for sharing Ms. Dessen's story.
Posted by emiline | May 5, 2009 10:04 PM
I love the cover! Thanks for the interview and the contest. :-)
Posted by Sarah P. | May 5, 2009 10:07 PM
I love this cover! I think that its adorable. I also want the pink dress!
Posted by Reyna | May 5, 2009 10:32 PM
I love all of Sarah's covers because they're just so crisp and clean and pretty. They represent her books so well. Although I'm not a fan of pick and red together either, with the white background and denim jeans, it just goes together so well! :)
Posted by Ariel | May 5, 2009 10:33 PM
I can't wait for this book! The cover is classic Sarah Dessen and I think they fit her writing style really well.
Posted by Paula | May 6, 2009 12:49 AM
Goodness. I'm so glad it's summer so images like that bike ride can become a reality soon.
Posted by Rebecca | May 6, 2009 1:11 AM
thats way too cool. something about that cover... i don't know that's so special. ha what am i saying? all of sarah dessen's covers are special!
Posted by hannah | May 6, 2009 1:36 AM
I love, LOVE this cover! Simply beautiful, just like all of Sarah's covers. It just shouts "summer"! With the beach, the bright colors, the bike and the girl's pretty sundress (which I really like.) I just know this novel is going to amazing, just like all of her novels. I can't wait to read it.
Posted by Glenda R | May 6, 2009 1:43 AM
I Love the cover and sarah's books can't wait 2 read this!!!
Posted by Stephanie | May 6, 2009 2:00 AM
I love Sarah's books and absolutely cannot wait to read this one.
At first the cover didn't really appeal to me, but it's grown on me, and I'm sure once I've read the book it'll actually make sense :)
Posted by Amanda | May 6, 2009 4:47 AM
I love the cover they chose! It's very cute, with the girl on the bike and the guy leaning towards her. It almost looks like she would be ranting and he's just sitting there, waiting it out :) Good choice, Sarah!!
Posted by Adrienne Anderson | May 6, 2009 7:20 AM
Congrats on Lovestruck Summer, Melissa! I just read a short excerpt on Barnes-n-Nobles from it and I am totally psyched to go buy it!!
And I LOVE the cover :) I actually really love what the guy is wearing....maybe just because I like that relaxed, manly feel about a guy. Somebody above said he looks like a clean greaser type...which to me is totally SA-WOON worthy. I mean, come on, you gotta have a guy who knows his way around a car right? Who else is going to come rescue you when your car breaks down in the middle of nowhere?? And the girl seems really girly which I wasn't expecting. When Sarah Dessen read a short excerpt on her website, the girl was portrayed as very brainy and for some reason that also meant to me not very girly. Why.... I don't know. I'm brainy but still girly and yet the connection didn't even pop into my head. But I am very ready for this book to be released. I'm practically salivating at the thought.....have been ever since Sarah introduced the book! So enter me for the advanced copy please! -Sarah
Posted by Sarah Jennings | May 6, 2009 3:06 PM
Wow, I do really, really like this cover, and it captures the essence of summer--bare feet, bikes, the ocean..just all of it, in one little snapshot. Every time I look at it though, I get a little bugged by the fact that the girl is riding backwards...I get that she's looking at her guy, but it just seems so illogical. The cover would click even better for me if she was facing forward somehow...hmm, not quite sure how that would work?
I am, however, looking forward to picking up this book the very first moment I can--it looks like a good one!!
Posted by Bente | May 6, 2009 5:03 PM
I think the cover is AH-Mazing!! it really makes me want to read it right now!! i cant wit till i can finally read it!
Posted by Sarah | May 6, 2009 5:07 PM
I love this cover! As like Sarah said, usually pink on red don't work, but in this case it's fantastic! Like everyother girl, I WANT that dress! (hahah) You get that feeling that this book is going to be great!
I woull love it if you would choose me to be the winner of this book because I've read all of Sarah Dessen's books and I'm dying to get my hands on the next! (Also, I recently had surgery on my foot so I would love to have a good book to read to while I elevate my foot!)
-Kelly
P.S.
I'm pumped to start reading Lovestruck Summer!
Posted by Kelly B | May 6, 2009 5:48 PM
I love the cover...because like everyone else says it's quintessential summer. I can't wait to read it. I'm so excited for June 16!!!
Posted by Himeko | May 6, 2009 5:54 PM
I can't wait for this book! The cover is one of my favorite Sarah Dessen covers.
Posted by Lauren Mae | May 6, 2009 5:55 PM
I like the color. I think it pops as well. The comment about red and pink not going well together reminds me of a book I read a long time ago by Caroline B. Cooney that centers around prom. One of the girls has red hair and doesn't want to wear this pink dress her grandmother is loaning her because she is scared that they will clash. It turns out though that the dress looks perfect, just like this cover does.
Posted by Kat Werner | May 6, 2009 6:43 PM
Too cute! I want to win!! :) :)
Posted by Abby | May 6, 2009 7:25 PM
Ahh...what an amazing cover. The bare feet of the girl and the beach in the background conveys the "summer look" Dessen was going for perfectly. It feels like the two are on a boardwalk on the West Coast. The cover is almost too perfect. The bright, nostalgic red of the bicycle brings back memories of an elementary, carefree summer, when all we had to worry about were pink dresses and sandy beaches.
Posted by Sara Karabashlieva | May 6, 2009 8:38 PM
I love the cover, though I must say that I'm partial to the pant leg myself. and the guy's faded face. I'm so excited for another Dessen book. yay!
Posted by goodbekah | May 6, 2009 9:02 PM
I love the cover because you can just put yourself in that atmosphere. The wind in your hair as you fly on your bike. It is great. All of Sarah Dessen's books have amazing covers, and this one is no exception!
I, too, love the pink dress, and the guy looks yummy. But - oh my goodness, that boy's legs are skinny. In the movie "While You Were Sleeping" Sandra Bullock says she would kill herself if Bull Pullman fits into her jeans, and that is what this guy's legs make me think of when I see them. :)
Posted by Joanna | May 6, 2009 9:17 PM
I think the cover is really eye-catching and love the pink dress on a red bike. I think those two colors go well together.
Posted by Diana | May 6, 2009 10:08 PM
I think this cover is really interesting- especially the way their faces fade out at the top. It gives it a mysterious feel. Like you don't know who they are. But yet you do. Ah, I'm confuzzling myself! One thing that I really like about it is the polka dot dress. Its so old fashion and really reminds you that the girl is kind of stuck in "academia" (as sarah dessen put it). And behind it is the subtle backdrop of the ocean. Its kind of nice that it doesn't make a statement. It kind of doesn't matter to the people on the bikes although- well DUH its the ocean. A lot of people would kill to go to the ocean but they seem to be quite content even if they weren't there. But my favorite part is the way she is sitting on the bike. I didn't realize it just glancing at it, but it makes quite a statement. At first I thought they were two different bikes (implying maybe that they weren't connected in anyway). But then I looked back at it and saw that it was one single bike. It kinda makes a statement in its own way. And as I look back at this, it could probably be suitable for some kind of english essay, but I don't really mind. I haven't read any of her books, but this one sounds interesting. I haven't read any of her books just because I want this one to stand out. My first sarah dessen book. I know, my little ideas mean a lot to me ;). Well, that's my er...few sentences that turned into a paragraph. ;)
Posted by Amy | May 6, 2009 10:13 PM
I am so excited for this book!
It sounds like it's going to be amazing and I totally love the cover!
:]]]
Posted by Marian | May 6, 2009 11:05 PM
I actually think this cover is so much more different from her other ones...it's a lot more breezy and classic and nostalgic. Maybe it's just me (?) but the first thing that popped out was the girl's legs. They look kind of plastic. Other than that, the bike is gorgeous. There are colonial style houses in my neighborhood that have bright red doors like that; it definitely reminds me of summer. And lemonade.
Posted by Ruthie | May 6, 2009 11:08 PM
For some reason, the cover reminds me of Meg Cabot. It's summery and lovely, a real fun read!
Posted by Llehn | May 7, 2009 3:32 AM
Great story, Sarah! I'm surprised to see that her other cover images have been popping up elsewhere; that must be frustrating. But I agree, the pink on red is definitely not clashing at all. It also matches well with the author name. :)
Posted by Steph Su | May 7, 2009 10:20 AM
I haven't read a novel by Sarah yet (I know I'm terrible) but I've always been drawn to her covers. I really love this one! It just makes me smile with the summer feeling it radiates. And I do adore that pink dress =D
I'd really like to get started with one of her novles but I really don't know where to start. I have a friend that has recommended a few but I might just start from the beginning.
Posted by Mishel | May 7, 2009 10:23 AM
I would like to be entered to win a copy of Along for the Ride. :)
Posted by DeAnna | May 7, 2009 6:03 PM
It's good to know that I wasn't the only one who noticed that pink and red were both major colors in the cover (I was always taught that they don't go together, as well), but the more I look at it, the more I like it. It's the kind of cover that makes you wonder, "Hey, what's that book about?" or think "I wish that were me." I can't wait to read it!
Posted by Brittany | May 7, 2009 9:19 PM
I love this cover! It makes me want to go biking when I haven't rode one in so long, of course I would love reading the book too. Sarah Dessen is a favorite of mine.
Posted by Alexandria | May 7, 2009 10:53 PM
The author was concerned about the pink dress next to the red bike, but I LOVE pink and red together. It's the hottest new color combo. I want a dress like that for summer. It looks like something you could wear in the blazing sun and still feel fresh. Would be great with a little pair of red flip-flips with skinny red patent straps. And look at the arms on the guy!
Posted by Jana | May 8, 2009 2:09 AM
Great cover! The strong, red lines of the bike are eye-catching, and the overall effect with the dress and bare feet, etc, is totally summery. :)
Posted by Shari | May 8, 2009 10:36 PM
Aha, the cover is awesome. :D
It looks all summery and breezy and cool
xD
Posted by Christie | May 9, 2009 12:01 AM
I really like the cover and I can't wait to read the book!
Posted by Sarah | May 9, 2009 12:20 AM
I'm so excited for Along For the Ride, as I am a die-hard Sarah Dessen fan. I love that Auden is barefoot and I cannot wait to read about bikes and summer and staying up all night... :)
Posted by Arra | May 9, 2009 2:21 PM
I love this cover and I love Sarah Dessen. She pulled off the summery feel with the colors and the girls fun flirty dress. For me one of the best things about reading a novel is seeing how the cover reflects the story being told. I love reading and being able to get this book would be amazing. Im in school all summer so being able to read a fun summery looking book would really help. :)
Posted by Kelly David | May 9, 2009 6:45 PM
i love the book cover..without seeing
the faces of the boy and girl it looks
like they have some chemistry! im looking
forward to reading this one!
Posted by Mona | May 9, 2009 8:15 PM
I'm generally with her about the red/pink, but this cover is just so gorgeous that I never even noticed it! Very summer-y.
Posted by Nancy | May 9, 2009 8:51 PM
This is such a great series! And I love the cover for ALONG THE RIDE. I also want that pink dress!
Posted by Sarah Mulhern | May 9, 2009 10:01 PM
I love the cover it is so summer. I love the read bike and the tan legs. That has summer all over it.
Thanks
carlene
Posted by Carlene | May 10, 2009 8:55 AM
I've always been a HUGE fan of Sarah Dessen's covers, especially The Truth About Forever (Years ago when I wasn't majorly into reading, the only reason I picked the book up was because of it's cover. And it ended up being, and still is, one of my all time favorite books)
I love this one, it's so adorable. I really think it does capture the summery feel.
And I do have to agree, I want that dress. I'm not a dress person, but that pink dress makes me want to be a dress person.
Posted by Chelsea | May 10, 2009 11:49 AM
I really like the pink dress and the red bike! It's a gorgeous cover and I'm really looking forward to reading the book!
amjohnson@gmail.com
Posted by Abby | May 10, 2009 12:20 PM
WOW!!!!!Sarah Dessen This is definitely your best cover. It is gorgeous and that is an big understatement. All of your novel covers are beautiful thay all make you feel something different i love them all but this one makes you feel that timeless love for summer like going and pulling out your bike and riding it all day in the summer sun and of course i would not mind if that guy on the cover was Along for the Ride. The cover is perfect so beautiful.Im so looking forward to reading this novel
Thanks
Posted by Julie | May 10, 2009 12:32 PM
I love the dress and I love the title.
And the cover (really really beautiful) makes me want to call some friends and go to a ride!
Posted by moni_k | May 10, 2009 6:36 PM
I love the cover! It's so cute. It looks very realistic and it captures your eye. : )
Posted by Genevieve | May 10, 2009 9:39 PM
i absolutely love sarah dessen and the cover! it's gorgeously composed. lovestruck summer looks beautiful too =]
Posted by Diana | May 11, 2009 12:45 AM
To start with, congrats on YOUR release!
I really like this cover in general (even once we get past how I really want to steal the dress for myself). There's something soft about all of her covers that really appeals to me (does this make sense?). In this case, the colors feed into that, along with the subtle edge of the water, plus the way the heads just sort of fade out. It makes me a bit nostalgic and I can't even help it.
To be honest, though, I'm sort of disappointed that they didn't go with the diner idea. One thing I've loved about Sarah Dessen's books recently is how the reader gets a hint of her other characters/settings in each one. The diner reoccurs in many of her books, and I think I'd really have appreciated the familiarity.
Posted by Kristin | May 11, 2009 3:08 AM
This cover really draws you into the book. The color choices, the bicycle, and even the clothes all work together to create a scene that could be anyone, anywhere, anytime.
Posted by Pam | May 11, 2009 9:03 AM
I LOVE this cover. It's amazing. Sarah Dessen is so cool.
I really can't wait to read the book because 1. I'm an insomniac and 2. summer is the greatest... and this definitely encompasses both. yayy!
Posted by Nicole | May 11, 2009 4:13 PM
This cover is fun and flirty! You see the girl character sitting backwards facing her beau and the reader gets the feeling of wanting to know them and their story. This cover also really screams SUMMER! The girl character typically has no shoes and of course a cute pink dress. The boy character is casual in a white t- shirt and washed out jeans. I have a feeling I will be seeing this cover all over the beach this summer. Can't wait for this to be my first summer read!
Posted by Danielle Stark | May 18, 2009 4:02 PM
There is obviously a lot to know about this. There are some good points here.
Posted by DBullock | September 23, 2009 10:21 PM
the cover has this classic feel to it. Bad boy meets good girl. it gives off this sort of timeless charm that everyone has read, heard,seen or felt.
Posted by Cynthia Rodriguez | February 7, 2010 3:00 PM