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The LIAR Cover Controversy
I've spoken with Justine Larbalestier a few times, and we've talked about her doing a Cover Story. It'll happen one day! But right now, while she's in the middle of a cover crisis, I just wanted to point anyone who hasn't read about the drama with her new LIAR cover, to her blog post about it.
Basically, Justine's US publisher chose a very white-girl image for the cover, although the main character in LIAR is black. (The Australian version is a more abstract cover--see behind the controversial US cover).
The party line is that it has to do with sales and marketing, but whatever the case, it's a whitewash, and I'm so glad Justine is talking about it. That takes a brave author.
The discussion is fast and furious--page through the comments for lots of insight, and add your own thoughts. If we keep talking about this, and blogging, and spreading the word, there may be hope for a more honest paperback cover.
PS-While you're on Justine's blog, check out guest blogging Ari Miss Attitude, of Reading in Color. She rules.
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Comments (5)
Thanks for the shoutout! Also thank you for talking about this cover issue.
I didn't like Tyrell as much, but I'm eager to give Kendra a try.
Posted by Ari | July 30, 2009 10:18 AM
I read about this controversy a bit ago. It's incredibly sad that she has to go through all of this. In her article about the issue, she pointed out how the cover completely diminishes the whole idea of the book (making the character really into a liar, including with her personal image). It's really sad that a cover did that. I wish her luck in this struggle!
Posted by Lauren | July 30, 2009 11:03 AM
I already knew that sometimes the author doesn't have a say on how the covers of their books look like but this is extremely annoying >.
Posted by Thao | July 30, 2009 11:56 AM
Hey Melissa, here's my video for your contest:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1bnuPt7bhU
I think it's annoying what little say some author's have on covers.
Posted by Katryna | July 30, 2009 1:17 PM
I have found this upsetting on many levels, not the least of which my impression of the cover before the controversy ("Hmm, what a striking cover.") and after, once I had found out the contents of the book. Hopefully the dialogue will do much to shape the future of publishing decisions and discussions among readers.
I hope you post this on readergirlz!
Posted by holly cupala | July 30, 2009 4:17 PM