The Inaugural Book Cover of the Year was

Pablo Font's The Wind that Lays Waste for Charco Press

The Shortlistees were: 

 

Animals Eat Each Other by Elle Nash

published by 404 Ink

designed by Leah McDowell of elemdesign

 This book design is cleverly layered and well thought through. The use of the tattooed arms and hands to create an animal jaw is very clever in reflecting the story within.

Guardians of the Wild Unicorns by Lindsay Littleson

published by Kelpies (an imprint of Floris Books)

designed by Leah McDowell & illustrated by Samantha Woo

The magic and fantasy within the pages of this book are clearly married through this multi-layered cover. It is a strong bold design that on each viewing, reveals different perspectives and interpretations for a younger readership.

In Nearby Bushes

by Kei Miller

published by Carcarnet Press

designed by Andrew Latimer

A conceptually strong distinctive work that sees its title and author hiding in newsprint columns that make the cover. The use of the strong yellow colour animates the overall design.

 

Self Heal by Samantha Walton

published by Boilerhouse Press

designed by Emily Benton Book Design. 

The beauty of this cover lies in its simplicity. It plays with paper stock and uses the design to reflect what lies beneath the ‘plaster’ enveloping the book. The typography is well thought out, which is extremely impactful on such a paired back design.

 

The Disconnect by Keren David

published by Barrington Stoke

designed by Julie-Ann Murray & illustrated by Jen Collins

This design works well in telling a story. Touches, such as the subtle fade, suggest an augmented reality. This design creates intrigue, inviting the reader to find out more.

 

The Wind That Lays Waste by Selva Almada (translated by Chris Andrews)

published by Charco Press

designed by Pablo Font. 

The design invites the viewer to interpret its main image in many ways whilst, at the same time, clearly communicating the essence of the story within.  The use of colour in this evocative image creates a confident and arresting cover.