I recently shared two book covers on Instagram and asked which one people would prefer: one featuring an illustration reminiscent of a classic Norman Rockwell painting or another that looked like a Photoshopped flyer on pool safety. The response was overwhelming! Many commented that they favored the nostalgic cover from the ’70s, with several fans admitting they still cherish their old copies because they can’t stand the new designs.
While the vintage cover may seem dated, at least it evokes a sense of curiosity that could entice a young reader. Unfortunately, this isn’t the only beloved children’s book to receive a less-than-stellar makeover. For instance, the once-psychedelic cover of Madeleine L’Engle’s A Wrinkle in Time has been replaced by a more whimsical grandma-like design in its current edition.
Similarly, the original cover of Judy Blume’s Freckle Juice, featuring a quirky boy applying lipstick to create fake freckles, might not be pretty, but it’s certainly intriguing enough to attract kids. In stark contrast, the modern version shows a blurry image of a jar, which lacks any excitement.
The cover of Beverly Cleary’s Ramona Quimby, Age 8, from the early ’80s captures childhood awkwardness perfectly, with a slender girl whose hair looks like she just touched a static charge. The updated version, however, showcases a generic illustration of a smiling girl on a bicycle, which feels far too ordinary.
Comparing the original and contemporary covers of From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler is like watching a beloved classic that has been colorized. The kids may strike the same pose, but publishers seem to think that today’s young readers would be confused by a simple black-and-white drawing.
On the brighter side, some publishers have chosen to stick with the tried-and-true illustrations that we know and love. Roald Dahl’s books have generally maintained their original covers, and while Stuart Little once veered into the realm of digital graphics, the latest edition has returned to its classic design.
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In summary, while modern book covers often lack the charm and imagination of their vintage counterparts, it’s heartening to see some classics preserve their original artwork.